Record Low Water Levels in Argentina *Update*

Correspondents Pandi Liquidadores S.R.L advise that it is currently uncertain how the State of Hydrological Emergency, which will last for 180 days, will impact ship operations.

Further details can be found in the Pandi Liquidadores circular, along with the text of the decree (in Spanish) – CIRCULAR 44-2021 – Hydrological Emergency

See the earlier updates (below) for further guidance

17 September 2020

Despite rises of 50cms in the Rosario-Timbues section since June, the condition of the Parana River continues to be critically low.

In their latest bulletin, Pandi Liquidadores S.R.L also advise that low rainfalls are forecast for the remainder of 2020 which will continue to affect the height of the water in the Parana River.

Their full advice, which can be read here includes:

• The importance of discussing the passage plan with the pilot
• When loading, be aware of the latest condition of the river, bearing in mind the maximum permissible drafts which are based on the critical points that the vessel has to sail through depending on location. This information is provided by the Undersecretary of Ports and Waterways every morning around 0900h.
• Importance of UKC at all times and consider the ship’s squat
• Contact the designated port agents before entering the River Plate basin and before departing from the designated terminal as to obtain accurate and up-to-date information to be confirmed then with the pilot on duty.

8 June 2020

Dry weather has resulted in record low water levels of the Parana River in Argentina. Not only has this resulted in several groundings, it has also led to draught restrictions at the river ports, which in turn is impacting the amount of cargo that vessels can load.

Local correspondents Pandi Liquidadores S.R.L advise that the Parana River is going through the worst low water levels for 50 years. Over the last month there has been a reported increase in the number of groundings, not only in the Parana River main navigation channel but also in some of the terminals along the river, notably the Rosario / San Nicolas area.

In addition to the grounding risk, the low water levels have led to draught restrictions, resulting in vessels loading less cargo. Correspondents estimate that a panamax bulk carrier is short loading around 2,000 mt per feet of draft and tankers (vegetable oil cargo) are loading 6,000 mt less in total.

River water level details can be obtained (in Spanish language) here.