Gradual Recovery of Amazon River Levels
The Amazon region's rivers, which recently faced historic low water levels, are experiencing a steady recovery due to the onset of the rainy season. The Negro River, for instance, has risen from a record low of 12.14 meters in October 2024 to 14.48 meters as of early December, with daily increases of approximately 14 cm, according to the Geological Survey of Brazil (SGB).
Other key rivers in the basin are also recovering:
Solimões River (Manacapuru, AM): Rising approximately 16 cm per day.
Madeira River (Porto Velho, RO): Increased by 1.62 meters after reaching a historic low of 19 cm in October.
These improvements come after one of the most intense droughts in 120 years, which disrupted water supply and river transport. Continued rainfall in the coming weeks is critical for sustained recovery.
Weather forecasts indicate that the arrival of continuous rains in the coming weeks should speed up the flooding process, bringing relief to communities and economic sectors dependent on the region’s rivers.
Despite the positive news, the state of Amazonas remains on alert, with Manaus and 61 other cities in an emergency situation. Researchers from the Geological Survey of Brazil emphasize that the rising river levels do not necessarily mean the end of the drought. Full recovery depends on the continuation of regular rainfall in the coming weeks, as the drought continues to pose challenges for navigation and agricultural production in Amazonas.
The charts below illustrate the recession of the main rivers in the region during December in 2023 and 2024. Information provided by PROA MANAUS (local pilots).
Navigation Resumes
Improved river levels have allowed container ships to resume operations in Manaus since late November, alleviating economic strain. Temporary measures, such as floating piers in Itacoatiara, enabled over 34,000 containers to be transshipped during the crisis, maintaining supply chains for the Manaus Free Trade Zone (ZFM).
According to the Association of Private Port Terminals (AMPORT), over 57,000 containers were redirected to temporary piers during the drought. With the Negro River now at 14.26 meters, regular port operations in Manaus have gradually resumed.
Grain Transport Recovery
Grain transport, heavily impacted during the drought, is also showing signs of improvement (AMPORT information):
Tapajós River: Navigation has resumed at 50% capacity, enabling grain flow to the Itaituba terminal.
Madeira River: Fully operational, with 100% of its grain transport capacity restored. This is vital for grain exports from Mato Grosso and neighboring regions.
Recommendations for Shipowners and Operators
Monitor River Levels: Stay updated on river conditions, particularly in areas previously affected by the drought.
Vessel Inspections: Conduct thorough reviews of vessels to ensure safe navigation in regions with fluctuating water levels.
Stay Alert to Notices: Follow updates from local authorities on navigation conditions and potential restrictions.
The gradual recovery of river levels and the resumption of economic activities offer relief to the Amazon region. However, shipowners and operators should remain cautious and proactive in managing operations during this transition.
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