Port Houston Sees Decline in Container Throughput Due to Fog Disruptions

Port Houston faced significant operational challenges in February as widespread fog led to a 13% year-over-year decrease in container throughput. The port managed to handle 325,424 TEUs during the month, with loaded imports and exports experiencing declines of 14% and 16% respectively.

The impact of the fog was particularly severe, causing navigation issues along the Houston Ship Channel for 14 days. This weather-related disruption resulted in a 29% reduction in channel availability, significantly higher than the 2.5% reported during the same period last year. Consequently, the Bayport and Barbours Cut Container Terminals saw 20 fewer vessels compared to the previous February.

Despite these challenges, certain segments of Port Houston’s operations showed resilience. While total tonnage decreased by 5% year-to-date, general cargo saw a 9% increase, attributed to strong volumes of lumber and plywood. Steel imports, although down by 13% in February, maintained a 1% year-to-date increase compared to the previous year.

Port Houston CEO, Charlie Jenkins, acknowledged the disruptive nature of weather challenges on maritime operations, stating that cargo volumes are already displaying signs of recovery in March.

The port is actively progressing with its infrastructure development through Project 11, part of the Houston Ship Channel Expansion initiative. Recent enhancements include adjustments to daylight restrictions, extending the sailing window for daylight-restricted vessels by 30 minutes. Overall, sailing time has increased by nearly two hours since the project’s inception.

Port Houston continues to play a vital role as an economic driver for Texas and the United States, supporting 1.54 million jobs in Texas and 3.37 million jobs nationwide. The port’s economic impact in Texas amounts to $439 billion, representing approximately 20% of the state’s GDP, with a national reach of $906 billion.