The severe drought conditions that had necessitated restrictions on ship passages through the Panama Canal were mitigated by increased rainfall. The Panama Canal Authority (APC) has announced plans to augment the number of daily booking slots for vessels to 35 in August, a significant increase from the previous limit of 24 crossings per day set in November 2023.

This augmentation includes 10 Neopanamax crossings (larger locks) and 25 Panamax crossings (smaller locks). The principal water source for the canal's operations, Gatún Lake, has seen higher rainfall, easing restrictions. Water levels are projected to continue rising during the rainy season, typically from May to December.

The drought's limitations significantly impacted global trade routes, compelling some ships to opt for longer alternative routes. These restrictions resulted in elevated global shipping rates and disruptions in supply chains. The APC anticipates more rainfall during the current rainy season due to a predicted La Niña event this summer. This could facilitate a return to normal operations by late summer or early fall.

A recent court ruling has paved the way for the potential construction of a new $1.6 billion reservoir to bolster the canal's water supply. However, this project could require up to six years to complete and necessitates approval from local communities. Despite these improvements, water levels in Gatún Lake remain below the historical averages for this time of year.