Search scaled back for missing Quebec hiker in Adirondack Mountains
The search for Quebec hiker Léo Dufour in the Adirondack Mountains has been scaled back after more than eight days of intensive efforts by New York authorities. Dufour, 22, from Vaudreuil, Quebec, went missing on Nov. 29 after embarking on a hike near Allen Mountain in the High Peaks Region. Despite extensive search efforts involving 59 forest rangers covering 640 kilometers by foot and utilizing helicopters for air support, harsh winter weather conditions have made the search challenging.
The search teams faced daily snowfall, temperatures dropping below -30 C at night, and snow depths exceeding a meter around the summit of Allen Mountain. The challenging terrain and extreme weather conditions have forced authorities to scale back the search to ensure the safety of the search teams. Incident Cmdr. Jameson Martin expressed the difficulties of the search efforts, citing the brutal conditions and the exhaustion of the search teams.
As of midnight Tuesday, the search operation will transition to a limited continuous search, involving air searches, backcountry patrols, and outreach. Active field searches will be suspended but may be resumed if any new leads on Dufour’s whereabouts emerge. Martin emphasized the need for weather-dependent search operations to conserve energy and prioritize safety.
Authorities have discouraged volunteers from attempting to assist in the search due to the treacherous conditions in the forest and on the roads. Martin and Capt. Sarah Geesler advised against winter hiking alone in the region and stressed the importance of carrying a satellite communication device for emergencies. Communication with Dufour’s family has been maintained privately, while social media has seen an outpouring of support for his safe return.
Dufour’s passion for outdoor adventures is evident in his social media presence, showcasing his hiking and skiing experiences in Quebec and the Adirondacks. While his gear list did not include a satellite communication device, he was equipped with essential winter gear, including snowshoes and spikes. Authorities have provided Dufour’s description and urged anyone with information to contact the NYSP at 518-897-2000.
The challenging search for Léo Dufour highlights the risks and uncertainties of outdoor activities in remote and rugged terrains, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and safety measures for wilderness adventures.
