2015 Sequoia and Kings Canyon NP Elevated Fire Restrictions
Posted: Mon May 04, 2015 10:46 am
Source: http://www.nps.gov/seki/learn/news/stag ... 0-2015.htm
You would likely be told this when getting a wilderness permit or staying overnight in the parks, but wanted to share a heads up so you can plan accordingly this season.SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif. May 4, 2015–The past four years have seen an unprecedented drought not only in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks but the entire Sierra Nevada Range.
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.
With the early season Potwisha Fire this past April, it is apparent that conditions in the park are exceptionally dry. Fire danger is currently at levels that are normally seen in June.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Superintendent Woody Smeck said, "In order to protect our visiting public, staff, and the parks resources and assets, we must be proactive in our approach to this year's fire season."
Therefore, directed by the Superintendent of the parks, pursuant to the procedures in Appendix M of the parks' Fire and Fuels and Fire Management Plan, Stage 2 Fire Restrictions will be effective at 8:00 a.m. on May 20, 2015