Major search underway for a number of people in difficulty in water off Withernsea
The Coastguard, RNLI, Yorkshire Ambulance Service and Humberside Fire and Rescue are all involved.
Last updated 2nd Jan 2026
A major search and rescue operation is taking place this evening off the coast at Withernsea.
It follows reports of a number of people in difficulty in the water.
The Coastguard has sent a search and rescue helicopter and aircraft to help with the operation as well as rescue teams from Withernsea, Hornsea and Hull.
RNLI teams and Yorkshire Ambulance Service are assisting as well as police and fire crews.
Earlier Hornsea Inshore rescue said it was unable to launch it's lifeboat due to poor weather conditions.
In a statement, HM Coastguard said: "HM Coastguard is responding to reports made at about 3.10pm on 2 January of a number of people in difficulty in the water at Withernsea. An HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft have been sent as well as Coastguard Rescue Teams from Withernsea, Hornsea and Hull.
"The RNLI's inshore lifeboat from Withernsea and all-weather lifeboat from Bridlington are assisting, as well as Hornsea Inshore Rescue. Yorkshire Ambulance Service has been sent as well as an air ambulance. Humberside Police and Humberside Fire and Rescue are also in attendance."