New York State authorities are asking for the public's help in finding Léo Dufour, 22, of Vaudreuil-Dorion, a young Quebec hiker who disappeared on their territory. His disappearance was reported on Saturday, November 30 at 11 p.m., when he failed to return from a hike. 

State police and forest rangers are asking for the public's help in finding him. Yesterday, the search was conducted in the Upper Works Road area of Newcomb. Léo Dufour is 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighs about 150 pounds and has brown hair. Police said he was moving in an unknown direction. 

In the wake of this request, the police remind us that the use of private drones in the search area is prohibited. While well-intentioned, unauthorized drones can interfere with official search efforts and create safety risks for rescue teams. Search operations for Dufour, 22, involve helicopters equipped with FLIR (forward-looking infrared) technology, which depend on clear airspace to scan remote terrain. Private drones risk colliding with these aircraft and delaying operations if air support is suspended until airspace is clear. The use of drones in the Adirondacks is strictly regulated. In accordance with FAA rules and the Adirondack Park Master Plan, drones are prohibited in designated wilderness, primitive and canoe areas, in order to protect the natural environment. In other areas, drone use is subject to authorization. Unauthorized drone flights during search and rescue operations not only disrupt efforts, but also put lives at risk. 

According to photos shared by police on social media, Dufour was last seen wearing a black Arc'teryx coat, black shell pants, a beige winter hat, reflective sunglasses and a black North Face backpack.

To complicate matters, a winter weather advisory is in effect for the region until 1am this Friday morning. Snow accumulations of 3 to 8 inches are expected, with locally higher amounts possible.

Anyone with location information is asked to contact the New York State Police at 518-873-2778.