Waters levels on parts of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands are already so low the province is urging residents to prepare for another summer of drought conditions.

"The region will likely experience significant water supply shortages in 2016 unless there is substantial precipitation between now and the end of June," said a statement issued by the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations on Monday.

The province says most streams and rivers on the islands are experiencing "very low flows," similar to this time last year.

In particular, southern Vancouver Island south of Tofino, Campbell River and the Gulf Islands are already experiencing Level 3 drought conditions.

As a result, all water users — including residents, industry, farmers and municipalities — are being urged to reduce their water consumption by 30 per cent.

B.C. has four levels of drought, with level four being the driest.

Actual water restrictions are generally set by municipal governments based in part on the provincial drought classification system and their own water reservoir levels. Last year many regions banned lawn watering and other water uses because of a level 4 drought.

So far this year the Capital Regional District and some other municipalities only have stage one water restrictions in place, which generally limits the time and days people can water their lawns.

But should conditions reach Level 4, "provincial water managers may exercise their authority to temporarily suspend authorized water usage in affected watersheds and aquifers," said the statement.

The ministry is also warning low river levels could again put an end to some freshwater fishing this summer.