US Gulf Coast Bunker Market Grapples with Storm-Induced Supply Constraints
The US Gulf Coast bunker market is facing tight prompt supply as storm season persists. At the Houston port, demand for bunker fuel is robust, and immediate supply of all three standard fuel types is constrained. According to ENGINE, high-sulphur fuel oil and low-sulphur marine gasoil require six to eight days of notice, while very low-sulphur fuel oil needs roughly five days.
At the Galveston Offshore Lightering Area, conditions are expected to remain workable, with gusts reaching 18 knots and waves under one meter from September 24 to 27. Deliveries are proceeding on a first-come, first-served basis, weather permitting.
The risk of sea fog at US Gulf Coast ports is predicted to remain low for most of the upcoming week, then increase to moderate at several key ports on September 30.