What better way to understand concepts big and small than through data visualizations? In this blog series, we bring you a collection of visuals on events, academic theories, and insights around economics and transportation, especially — but not exclusively — from academia and news organizations. Join us to explore and engage with interesting and insightful data visualizations from creators around the world.
The third edition of Data Vizdom looks at the effects climate change has had on the water levels at Panama Canal, an important trade route connecting the Atlantic with the Pacific.
Ships moving through the canal transport critical goods to and from Asia, the Americas and beyond. The route through the canal is essential for global trade, ensuring the efficient delivery of raw materials, manufactured goods and other vital supplies across continents.
Panama Canal Traffic by Shipment Category and Tonnage – Visual Capitalist (February 4, 2024)
Ships traverse the canal by passing through the artificially created Gatun Lake, which was formed by damming the Chagres River. The water levels of the lake are critical for unrestricted access to the canal.
Panama Canal Drought Slows Cargo Traffic – The New York Times (January 25, 2024)
However, in recent years, the water levels of Gatun Lake have plummeted due to drought. What is more worrying is that sporadic rainfall has prevented the water levels from recovering after the dry season. In 2024, exacerbated by El Niño, the lake’s water levels are especially low, starting at their lowest recorded levels.
Panama Canal traffic recovers from drought caused by El Niño, study finds – Financial Times (May 4, 2024)
The low water levels have had a direct impact on the number of ships passing through the canal, slowing down trade. The restriction in access has also caused a traffic buildup at the canal’s entrances.
Drought in Panama is disrupting global shipping. These 7 graphics show how. – Woodwell Climate Research Center (February 20, 2024)
The alternative routes for ships, necessitated by restrictions at the canal, will have major repercussions for global trade. Traffic will have to be diverted to other important corridors, stressing their capacities. Additionally, the increased travel distances will further impact the climate and cause delays similar to those from the ongoing Red Sea crisis.
How could Panama Canal restrictions affect supply chains. – McKinsey & Company (January 19, 2024)
The economic impact of a week-long disruption at the Panama Canal is estimated to send ripples across the world.
Help us make this series even better! We would love to hear about sources we should follow to discover interesting projects and visualizations. Write to Bilal Siddika on LinkedIn or via email.