Port Houston faced notable operational challenges in February, primarily due to heavy fog, which resulted in a 13% drop in container traffic compared to the same month last year. the port processed 325,424 TEUs during this period, with loaded imports and exports seeing declines of 14% and 16%, respectively.
The fog was particularly disruptive, impacting vessel navigation along the Houston Ship Channel for two weeks. This weather-related issue led to a staggering 29% decrease in channel availability—an increase from just 2.5% the previous year. Consequently, both Bayport and Barbours Cut Container Terminals saw a reduction of 20 vessels compared to February of last year.However, not all segments were negatively affected. While total tonnage fell by 5% for the year so far, general cargo actually rose by 9%, thanks largely to robust demand for lumber and plywood products. Interestingly, steel imports dipped by 13% in February but still managed a slight overall increase of 1% year-to-date.
“Weather can really throw a wrench into maritime operations,” noted Port Houston CEO Charlie Jenkins. He also mentioned that cargo volumes are beginning to bounce back as march progresses.
On the infrastructure front, Port Houston is making strides with Project 11—the initiative aimed at expanding the Houston Ship Channel. Recent enhancements include extending daylight sailing hours by an additional half-hour for vessels restricted by light conditions; since launching this project, overall sailing time has improved by nearly two hours.
Port Houston plays an essential role as an economic powerhouse not just for Texas but also for the entire United States—supporting approximately 1.54 million jobs within Texas alone and around 3.37 million nationwide. Its economic footprint is impressive too: contributing $439 billion to Texas’s economy (about one-fifth of its GDP) and reaching $906 billion across America.
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