To Save the Panama Canal From Drought, a Disruptive Fix

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By Peter S. Goodman The New York Times. 

Excerpt: In the wake of a drought that hampered shipping, the Panama Canal’s overseers are eager to expand water storage. Climate change leaves them no choice. ...Last year, a drought dropped the lake to critical levels, prompting canal authorities to limit traffic. At the worst point, in December, only 22 ships a day were allowed to pass through the canal, down from the usual 36 to 38. More than 160 ships were stuck at anchor at both ends. Rains that began in May have allowed the lifting of most restrictions, and 35 ships a day on average have made the journey in recent weeks. But canal authorities know that this is merely a respite in a new era influenced by climate change and frequent periods of El Niño, when ocean temperatures rise and rainfall decreases. They are consumed with expanding water storage.... 

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