Two Dead and One Missing After Major Coastal Rescue Operation in East Yorkshire

Two people have tragically died following a large-scale search and rescue operation off the east Yorkshire coast on Friday, authorities have confirmed. Emergency services are continuing their efforts to locate a third person who remains missing after entering the sea at Withernsea.

Humberside Police reported that a 67-year-old man was pulled from the water unconscious and later died at the scene. A second body was recovered on Friday evening, though the gender and age of the individual have not been released. Police emphasized that the circumstances surrounding the deaths are not considered suspicious.

The incident was first reported at 15:10 GMT, prompting a major response involving HM Coastguard, RNLI crews from Withernsea, Bridlington, and Hornsea, a rescue helicopter, and an air ambulance.

Conditions at the scene have been described as “horrendous,” with snow and ice warnings in effect across much of the UK. BBC reporter Jessica Lane, present at Withernsea, said search teams faced “bitterly cold and windy” weather, with driving snow and rough seas: “The sea is rough with waves crashing above the sea wall and members of the coastguard were walking along the promenade, scanning the rocks below.”

Search efforts were paused around 00:30 on Saturday and resumed at first light. “Residents will continue to see an increased police presence in and around the area as the search continues. We continue to ask that people avoid the area to allow emergency services to work efficiently and safely,” a police spokesperson said.

HM Coastguard confirmed that teams from Hull, Withernsea, Hornsea, and Bridlington returned to the scene at 06:30 GMT on Saturday. Hornsea Inshore Rescue described facing “horrendous conditions” with waves reaching 9.8ft (3m).

Around 100 emergency personnel, including Yorkshire Ambulance and Humberside Fire and Rescue, have been involved in the operation. The large cordon initially in place has now been lifted.