The Variations in Sea Level on the West and East Sides of the Panama Canal

The height of sea level is generally a uniform reference point across the globe, yet, local geographical and environmental factors can cause slight variations in water levels. This article delves into these variations specifically in the context of the Panama Canal, exploring how differing tidal patterns and geographical features influence sea level on the west and east sides of the canal.

Understanding Sea Level Variations

Sea levels are typically considered constant across the globe, serving as a uniform reference point for measurements. However, when dealing with the specific case of the Panama Canal, local conditions introduce variations in water levels. The canal, being man-made, connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, which have different tidal patterns and altitudes.

The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) defines zero mean sea level (MSL) as a reference point for various coastal charts and nautical activities. In the context of the Panama Canal, the MSL on the Atlantic side and Pacific side is not the same. This disparity can be measured in cm or feet, leading to significant implications for navigation and shipping.

Personal Experience: Transversing the Panama Canal

The author has personally transversed the Panama Canal twice on a yacht. During these trips, a notable observation was made regarding the sea level on the Pacific side at Panama City, which was 40 cm higher than the Atlantic Ocean at Colon, as compared to the 1000-decibar surface.

These variations are due to a combination of factors, including:

The natural tidal patterns of each ocean, which have different strengths and rhythms. The obstruction caused by the canal's locks, which raise and lower ships to navigate the land elevation in Panama. The internal elevation of the land in Panama being higher than sea level, requiring ships to ascend to Gatun Lake.

Geographical and Environmental Factors

Geographical and environmental factors can also influence sea level. For instance, the internal elevations in Panama create significant changes in water levels when ships are being navigated through the canal. The canal's extensive expansion plans aim to accommodate larger ships or post-Panamax vessels, which pose both opportunities and challenges.

The only concern is the frequent earthquakes in the region, which could affect the sea floor and accessibility of the canal for shipping vessels of any size. These factors highlight the complex interplay between natural and man-made elements in determining sea levels on either side of the canal.

Mean Sea Level: A Consistent Measurement Affected by Variations

While the concept of MSL provides a consistent reference point, recording the measurements at different locations reveals variations. MSL is determined by continuously recording the movement of the sea for many years, then averaging these readings to eliminate tidal, seasonal, and interannual variations.

However, it's important to note that the strength of winds, tides, and currents varies across different locations, leading to variations in the average MSL. This variability can be observed and measured, as it was during the author's navigational journey through the Panama Canal.

Conclusion

The Panama Canal, as a man-made structure connecting two major oceans, showcases the complex interplay of environmental and geographical factors in determining sea level variations. Understanding these variations is crucial for navigation, shipping, and expanding the canal to accommodate larger vessels.

By studying the sea level differences on the west and east sides of the canal, we can better appreciate the challenges and opportunities presented by such an engineering marvel.