The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) announced a second draught restriction for the Canal due to drought caused by the El Niño phenomenon. Effective 29 April the maximum authorised transit draught will be set at 11.74 m (38.5 ft) tropical fresh water. Vessels loaded to draughts over 11.74 m (38.5 ft) on or before April 1, 2016, will have this draught restriction waived for transit, subject to safety considerations. Vessels loaded after 1 April 2016 will have to comply with the draught restriction. Draught restrictions will be implemented in 15 cm (six-inch) decrements at a time, with each restriction announced at least four weeks in advance.
