A major rescue mission kicked off off the Yorkshire coast today as emergency crews scrambled to save people struggling in the sea near Withernsea. A 67-year-old man was pulled from the water but tragically died at the scene.
Massive Sea Rescue Underway
Humberside Police were first alerted at 3.10pm on Friday after reports of people in trouble in the water. An all-hands-on-deck response launched immediately, with ambulance, police, fire services, coastguard, and local volunteer teams rushing to help.
HM Coastguard sent out a search and rescue helicopter and a fixed-wing aircraft. The RNLI, York Ambulance Service, fire crews, and an air ambulance also joined the frantic operation. Sadly, the 67-year-old man was found unconscious and died shortly after being rescued. Police confirmed his death is not being treated as suspicious.
Search Continues Amid Freezing, Furious Seas
Rescue teams are still hunting for others who may be in the water. HM Coastguard earlier reported searching for two missing people, though exact numbers remain unclear.
Conditions are brutal, with temperatures set to plunge below freezing overnight. Hornsea Inshore Rescue revealed they couldn’t launch their lifeboat due to towering 3-metre waves smashing the slipway – so dangerous, not even their tractor and trailer could be put to use.
“Called out, unable to launch the lifeboat due to horrendous conditions,” the rescue group said on social media. They also cancelled a planned New Year’s Day swim, warning the sea was far too unsafe.
Public Warned to Stay Clear
Humberside Police appealed for the public to steer clear of Withernsea and let emergency crews work unhindered. Humberside Fire added: “There are emergency service vehicles around Central Promenade. Please avoid the area and take extra care as emergency vehicles are moving.”
The bitter cold snap saw East Riding of Yorkshire Council activate a severe weather protocol as crews battled the freezing, stormy elements to save lives.
New Year’s Sea Tragedy Strikes Again
This grim drama comes days after a 51-year-old man died trying to swim in Brighton on New Year’s Day, a stark reminder how deadly winter waters can be.
Yorkshire’s rescue effort rages on as authorities scour the east coast. Locals are warned to keep well clear and stay safe from the deadly sea conditions.
