Westport Hiker May Have Died In Adirondacks Avalanche: Officials

WESTPORT, CT — The Westport man who was found dead after he didn't return home from a hiking trip in the Adirondacks may have been caught in an avalanche, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation said.

On March 18, Forest Rangers and volunteer rescuers found the body of 63-year-old Thomas Howard under four feet of snow, the DEC said.

The department consulted with experts at the National Avalanche Center, who said evidence suggests an avalanche may have occurred at the site where he was found.

Read more: Westport Man Found Dead After New York Hiking Trip

"However, without an eyewitness and due to changing snow conditions, it is impossible to say for certain if the snow accumulation was the result of an avalanche or drifted snow," the DEC said in a statement.

In the same statement, the DEC warned hikers that warmer temperatures may cause more avalanches in the Adirondacks.

Howard was reported missing on Wednesday, March 16, after he didn't return from a hiking trip in North Elba, New York.

Read more: Westport Man Missing After New York Hiking Trip: NY State Police

His body was found at around 10:30 a.m. Friday, and he was located part way up the Trap Dike on Mount Colden, the Connecticut Post reported.

"The Howard family wishes to express their gratitude to the community and the searchers for their support," North Country Public Radio reported, citing a statement released by state officials. "The family asks for privacy as they grieve the loss of their loved one."