The ship fuel supply situation in Houston, located in the Gulf of America, has been severely pressured due to high demand and adverse weather conditions. Currently, the supply of three types of Bunker fuel in this region is significantly restricted, and some suppliers are unable to provide HSFO and VLSFO. According to reports, the delivery time for these two types of fuel has increased by 6 to 8 days, while LSMGO is available with a delivery time of 4 to 5 days.
Impact of Weather Conditions on Port Operations
Adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and rough seas, have disrupted port operations in the Galveston Offshore Lightering Area (GOLA) over the past week. It is expected that wind speeds will reach 42 knots and wave heights will reach 2.4 meters from October 16 to 18, which could further delay fuel deliveries.
Deliveries are currently being made on a "first come, first served" basis and are affected by weather conditions. Additionally, the presence of fog in the Gulf of America on Friday could complicate fuel deliveries. Visibility in this area is expected to drop to two nautical miles.
Situation of Other Ports in America
In New Orleans, strong winds could disrupt port operations from October 16 to 18, with winds expected to reach 31 knots. On the East Coast, demand in New York is stable, and the supply situation for VLSFO and LSMGO in this area is acceptable, with a delivery time of 5 to 7 days.
However, the situation for HSFO in New York is somewhat more limited, requiring at least one week for delivery. Strong winds could disrupt fuel deliveries at this port on October 16 and 17.
In Los Angeles and Long Beach, the ship fuel market has been stable, and favorable weather conditions have aided port operations. In these areas, the delivery time for LSMGO reaches 4 to 5 days, while the situation for VLSFO and HSFO is limited, with delivery times extending to one week.
In Vancouver, Canada, the supply situation for all three types of fuel is normal, with HSFO and LSMGO typically delivered within 4 to 5 days. VLSFO is also available and requires at least 5 days for delivery.
In the Caribbean and Latin America, the fuel market in Panama is strong, and no weather disruptions are expected at the Balboa and Cristobal ports. The supply situation for VLSFO and LSMGO at these ports is normal, with a recommended delivery time of 3 to 6 days.
In Colombia, the fuel supply situation at the ports of Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Barranquilla is normal, with a recommended delivery time of 5 to 8 days. In Brazil, the supply of VLSFO and LSMGO in Rio de Janeiro is limited and available only under prior consultation.
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