Dry Conditions Lead to Fire Restrictions at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Fire restrictions were put into place Friday in Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks as officials try to cope with extremely dry conditions across the two parks.

Under the restrictions, "no wood or barbecue fires are permitted below 6,000 feet, except in designated campgrounds. This includes Ash Mountain Picnic Area, Hospital Rock Picnic Area and backcountry travel below 6,000 feet. Gas or propane stoves may be used at all elevations. No smoking below 6,000 feet is permitted, except within a developed area, a campground, an enclosed vehicle, or a building which allows smoking."

If further restrictions are necessary in the future due to changing conditions, the parks will make another public announcement.

These National Park Service restrictions will remain in effect until further notice.