The Panama Canal is one of the world’s most important trade routes. More than 1,000 ships pass through each month, carrying 5% of the world’s total seagoing cargo. But climate change poses a growing threat to this vital waterway. In 2023, the canal suffered the worst drought in its 143-year history. It forced the Canal Authority to restrict the number of ships passing through each day. Experts say more droughts are on the way as global temperatures continue to rise.