#PanamaCanal

[azspot]

In fact, one of the most important reasons the US began negotiations to “give away” the Canal nearly 60 years ago was mounting fear from the US military that it would become impossible to defend such a large, sprawling asset if local sentiment kept turning more strongly anti-American. It’s common knowledge that the transfer deal was signed under Jimmy Carter. But the serious talks began under Richard Nixon, out of realpolitik concerns about guarding the Canal in the long run. These strategic issues weren’t a big part of the in-public debate in the 1970s about transferring control to Panama. But they were a huge, perhaps decisive background factor.

Panama Is Back in the News. That Can be a Good Thing.

[undergroundusa]

"And as the far-Left’s grinch drove out of sight, all the little shuddering Karens and globalist ne’er-do-wells heard him say, ]Happy Christmas to all, and to all a huuuuuuge night!'.."

ORIGINAL CONTENT: https://www.undergroundusa.com/p/trump-crazy-like-a-grinchy-fox

[athleticsglobal]

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Mihir Sen, a renowned Indian swimmer and lawyer, was the first Asian to swim the English Channel in 1958, setting a record time for the journey from Dover to Calais.

[oilgasenergymagazine]

The Panama Canal Drought: Challenges and Solutions

https://oilgasenergymagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/33.-The-Panama-Canal-Drought_-Challenges-and-Solutions-Image-by-tedpagel-from-Getty-Images-.jpg

Source: Image by tedpagel from Getty Images

Category: Conventional Energy

The Panama Canal, an engineering marvel that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, has been a vital artery for global trade since its opening in 1914. However, in recent years, the region has faced significant environmental challenges, leading to the alarming phenomenon known as the Panama Canal drought. This drought has profound implications not only for shipping but also for the global economy.

Understanding the Panama Canal Drought

The Panama Canal drought refers to a prolonged period of reduced rainfall in the watershed areas surrounding the canal. These areas are crucial for maintaining the water levels necessary for the canal’s operation. The canal relies on a series of lakes and artificial reservoirs, most notably Gatun Lake, to supply the water needed to raise and lower ships as they transit. Unfortunately, the increasing frequency and intensity of drought conditions are threatening this delicate balance.

Several factors contribute to the Panama Canal drought. Climate change is a significant driver, altering weather patterns and leading to irregular rainfall. Additionally, deforestation and land use changes in the region have exacerbated the problem, reducing the land’s natural ability to retain moisture. As a result, the canal has experienced lower water levels, directly impacting shipping operations.

Impact on Global Trade

The Panama Canal drought poses a serious threat to global trade. As one of the busiest shipping routes in the world, the canal facilitates the passage of thousands of vessels each year. Reduced water levels mean that larger ships, particularly those known as “New Panamax” vessels, may not be able to transit the canal. This limitation can lead to increased shipping costs, delays, and a ripple effect throughout global supply chains.

For instance, in 2023, the canal authority implemented restrictions on the maximum draft (the depth of the ship in the water) that vessels could have due to lower water levels. This restriction forced shipping companies to either lighten their loads or seek alternative routes, leading to higher operational costs. As a result, the prices of goods have risen, affecting consumers worldwide.

Moreover, the Panama Canal drought has broader implications for the economies of countries reliant on exports. With delays in shipping, goods may not reach international markets on time, affecting businesses and consumers alike. This situation is particularly challenging for countries that rely heavily on the canal for trade, such as those in Latin America.

Responses to the Panama Canal Drought

In response to the Panama Canal drought, various stakeholders are taking measures to mitigate its impact. The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has been proactive in managing water resources more effectively. For instance, they are investing in infrastructure improvements and exploring alternative sources of water to sustain canal operations.

One such initiative is the construction of additional water storage facilities to capture and store rainwater during wetter months. By enhancing the capacity to hold water, the ACP aims to create a buffer against future droughts. Furthermore, the authority is implementing more stringent water management practices, ensuring that the available water is used efficiently.

Additionally, international collaboration is essential in addressing the challenges posed by the Panama Canal drought. Countries that depend on the canal for trade can work together to develop strategies for better water conservation and management. This collaborative approach can lead to shared solutions that benefit all stakeholders involved.

Technological Innovations

Technology plays a crucial role in addressing the challenges of the Panama Canal drought. Innovations in data analytics and weather forecasting can provide valuable insights into rainfall patterns, helping authorities plan for drought conditions more effectively. Moreover, advancements in irrigation and water conservation technologies can help reduce water waste in the region.

For example, smart irrigation systems can optimize water usage in agriculture, reducing the strain on local water resources. By implementing these technologies, the surrounding communities can contribute to alleviating some of the pressures associated with the Panama Canal drought.

Future Outlook

The future of the Panama Canal amid ongoing drought conditions is uncertain. However, there is a growing recognition of the need for sustainable practices to protect this vital trade route. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, it is crucial for all stakeholders to remain vigilant and adapt to changing conditions.

Investing in sustainable infrastructure, promoting reforestation, and enhancing water management practices will be key to ensuring the long-term viability of the Panama Canal. Additionally, continued research into climate resilience and adaptation strategies will be essential in preparing for future challenges.

Conclusion

The Panama Canal drought is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. As one of the world’s most significant waterways, its health is crucial for global trade and economic stability. By understanding the causes and impacts of this drought, we can work towards implementing effective solutions. Through collaboration, technological innovation, and sustainable practices, it is possible to mitigate the effects of the Panama Canal drought and secure its future for generations to come.

Addressing these challenges will require the collective efforts of governments, businesses, and communities, all committed to preserving this essential artery of global commerce. The Panama Canal’s role in international trade cannot be overstated, and safeguarding its operations is vital for a resilient global economy.

Found this article useful? Check out more of our posts at Oil Gas Energy Magazine!

[ilearnedthistodaysblog]

#1178 Why are there only the Suez Canal and Panama Canal?

Why are there only the Suez Canal and the Panama Canal? There are only the Suez Canal and the Panama Canal because they are at the two points in the world where shipping distances can be greatly reduced. No other canal would make enough of a difference to be worth the price of building it. The Suez Canal cuts through Egypt from Port Said to Suez, hence its name. It goes through the narrow part of land that connects the continent of Africa to the continents of Europe and Asia. The strip of land is about 150 km wide and the Suez Canal is 193.3 km long because it doesn’t go in a perfect straight line. The canal allows shipping to go from the Mediterranean Sea in the north to the Red Sea in the South. The Mediterranean Sea is open to the Atlantic Ocean and the Red Sea connects to the Indian Ocean, which connects to the Pacific Ocean. The Suez Canal means ships can get from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Trade between Europe and Asia became exponentially easier thanks to the canal. It was built between 1859 and 1869. Before the canal was built, to get from Europe into Asia, ships would have to sail all around Africa, heading past the infamous Cape of Good Hope. The Cape of Good Hope is not the most southerly point of Africa, but it is the point where ships have to start heading east. The bottom of Africa was a very dangerous place to sail past because a warm water current from the east hits a cold current coming from the north. This produces dangerous waves, winds, and storms. A lot of ships have sunk at this point. The Suez Canal cut 8,900 km and 18 days off the journey from Europe to Asia, but it also made the journey a lot safer. It cost a lot to sail along the canal, but it was worth it to ensure the ship and the goods would arrive. Trying to find another route to India was Columbus’s reason for sailing to the Americas. The Panama Canal cuts through the thin strip of land that connects South America to North America. It passes through Panama, hence the name, and is 82 km long. There are several natural lakes in the area, which makes the canal much shorter. Sailing along the canal allows ships to pass from the Atlantic to the Pacific and means that ships can easily reach both coasts of the US from Europe and from East Asia. The canal saves ships a journey of 14,818 km because they no longer have to sail around Cape Horn, the southern point of South America. Cape Horn has similar weather to the Cape of Good Hope. Different oceans meet and there are strong winds, huge waves, strong currents, and even icebergs. A lot of ships sank here. The Panama Canal was finished in 1914 and saved ships about 22 days. So, why are there only these two canals? Are there any other places where a canal would save shipping a lot of time? There are not really any other thin strips of land where a canal could be built. There is a thin strip of land through Turkey that separates the Black Sea from the Mediterranean Sea, but it already has a natural waterway called the Bosporus. There is a canal that goes through Europe from the Black Sea to the North Sea, called the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal, but it is not large enough for big cargo ships and it would probably take ships longer to navigate it than to sail around Europe. The Suez and Panama canals are on thin strips of land that connect two oceans. It made financial sense to cut the canals. There are no other places on Earth that have the same conditions. They are not canals, but climate change is opening up the Northwest Passage, which will cut a lot of time off journeys. The Northwest Passage goes through the islands that are to the north of Canada and Alaska. It is 1,500 km long. For most of our seafaring history, the Northwest Passage has been completely frozen over and when the ice has melted enough in the summer to get through, there are enormous icebergs that can easily sink ships. However, thanks to climate change, the ice has receded so far that the passage is open for a lot of the year. The route was completely free of ice in 2007, and these days, it is a common route from the Atlantic to the Pacific. The route will make journeys from the east coast of the US to Europe much faster, but at the expense of what? And this is what I learned today. Try these: - #66 How much time does the Panama Canal save a ship? - #486 How does a canal lock work? - #287 How do you build a tunnel underwater?   - #1005 Do bulls really hate red? - #313 Where did the names of the continents come from? Sources https://1997-2001.state.gov/regions/wha/panama/991206_faqs.html https://ascentlogistics.com/blog/the-panama-canal-vs-the-suez-canal/ https://www.bbc.com/news/business-68467529 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suez_Canal https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panama_Canal https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_of_Good_Hope https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_Horn https://www.history.com/topics/exploration/northwest-passage Photo by Victor Puente: https://www.pexels.com/photo/cargo-ship-on-docking-area-7629244/ Read the full article

[rethinking-the-dollar]

Trump’s Greenland dreams & Panama Canal threats spark global debates. Is this America’s boldest move yet? Discover the details now! http://rtd.news

[projectmanagertemplate]

History is rich with tales of projects once considered impossible, yet through ingenuity, determination, and sheer audacity, they succeeded. From engineering marvels to technological breakthroughs, these endeavors redefined human capabilities, inspiring generations. Here's a look at some iconic projects that overcame insurmountable odds.

[thedivinemsem]

Coffee at sea always seems to taste better. It's a bit chilly and windy, so I don't think I will try the walking track. The only people I have seen in the pools and hot tubs are kids. But the sun is shining and I am ready to explore more of this ship.

[azspot]

The managers of the Canal say that what they have to sell the world is not transportation but water. Every ship that travels the 50-plus miles from ocean to ocean through the Canal requires some 50 million gallons of fresh water.

That’s how much it takes to raise a ship from sea level, in the Caribbean or the Pacific, up through multiple locks to Gatun Lake in the middle of the isthmus. The lake is 78 feet above sea level; after reaching it, from either direction, the ships then descend through locks down to sea level on the other side. Every drop of that water to fill the locks comes from rainfall in the largely forested land in the Canal’s watershed, which then drains into Gatun and smaller lakes. After being used to raise and lower ships in the locks, the water eventually makes it way out into the seas.

[helgaolgaroemer]

Olga Roemer : DICKERSON 8 YACHT by OLGA ROEMER a/k/a/ HELGA ROEMER

[davidstanleytravel]

The floating crane Titan seen here at Gamboa, Panama, performs heavy lifting tasks for lock maintenance on the Panama Canal. The crane was built in Germany in 1941, then seized by the U.S. Navy in 1945 and used at the Long Beach Navy Yard until 1994.

[myberndpulch]

✌An In-Depth Analysis of Trump, Greenland, the Panama Canal, and the Gulf of Mexico: Geopolitical Ambitions and Strategic Interests

“At strategic crossroads: Trump, Greenland, the Panama Canal, and the Gulf of Mexico—where global power, resources, and security intersect.” Support In-Depth Analysis: Join BerndPulch.org Today Explore the intricate geopolitics of Trump, Greenland, the Panama Canal, and the Gulf of Mexico with BerndPulch.org. Our in-depth analysis unravels the strategic interests and global implications behind…