A record low snowpack and a drought that's run four years are prompting Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks to implement campfire restrictions later this month as fire danger currently is at levels not normally seen in June, according to park officials.

Weather stations across the area are showing well-below normal seasonal rainfall for this time of year. Furthermore, the winter snowfall was practically non-existent, leading to the smallest high elevation snowpacks on record, a park release said. With the early season Potwisha Fire this past April, it is apparent that conditions in the park are exceptionally dry, it added. 

As a result, fire restrictions will take effect at 8 a.m. on May 20. Under those restrictions, wood or charcoal fires will be prohibited in the Buckeye Flat, Potwisha, and South Fork campgrounds, as well as at the Ash Mountain and Hospital Rock Picnic Areas. Fires also will be banned at wilderness campsites below 6,000 feet, the release said.

Smoking is also prohibited below 6,000 feet, except within an enclosed vehicle, a building in which smoking is allowed, a campground or picnic area where wood and charcoal fires are allowed, or a designated smoking area. Gas, propane, alcohol (with and without a shutoff valve) and tablet/cube stoves will still permitted in all areas.

To stay atop of fire conditions, check this page regularly.