Houston Ship Channel reopens for outbound vessels - Norton Lilly

Houston Ship Channel reopened for outbound vessel traffic at 09.00 local time (15.00 GMT) today, around nine hours after it was shut in both directions by fog and poor visibility, local agent Norton Lilly says.

PHOTO: A view of the Houston Ship Channel with barges, loading docks and industrial plants in the background. Getty Images

Congestion has been building as vessels have been unable to pass through the channel. There are currently 23 vessels waiting to enter inbound and 11 outbound. These outbound vessels will now be able to sail.

More fog and reduced visibility is expected for in periods until next week, which could see the channel open and shut intermittently.