Heavy rainfall and localised flooding could disrupt cargo movements across East Africa between October and December, Maersk has warned.
Anticipated El Niño conditions could restrict access to ports, terminals, depots and inland delivery points, the shipping line said in a recent customer advisory. The timing and severity of the weather remained uncertain and conditions would vary by location.
Flooding and road damage could lengthen transit times, restrict routes and delay cargo moving to neighbouring countries, according to the advisory. Longer truck turnaround times could also reduce transport availability and slow container collections and deliveries.
Export shipments could miss terminal cut-offs and roll over to later sailings if road access were disrupted, Maersk said.
Severe weather could slow or temporarily suspend cargo handling where conditions were unsafe, affecting vessel loading and discharge. Delayed collections could also increase terminal yard occupancy and container dwell times, the carrier warned.
Additional planning and transit time should be allowed, particularly for time-sensitive shipments and cargo moving through flood-prone areas, Maersk advised. Early coordination with transporters, clearing agents and receiving facilities would help customers confirm road access and transport availability before dispatch.
Export containers should reach terminals well ahead of cut-off times where possible, with shipping instructions and customs documentation submitted accurately and on time, according to the advisory.
Customers moving time-sensitive or temperature-controlled cargo should contact their Maersk representatives early to discuss requirements and available options.
Weather conditions and their potential impact on cargo movements were being monitored, the carrier said. Further updates would follow if significant operational or service changes arose.
Comments (0)