A search operation is ongoing for two individuals believed to be missing off the coast of Withernsea, located in the East Riding of Yorkshire. According to HM Coastguard, emergency services received the alert just after 15:00 (local time) on January 1, 2024.
Rescue efforts have involved ambulances, helicopters, and a fixed-wing aircraft, all operating under challenging conditions, with waves reported to reach heights of 9.8 feet. The situation has prompted increased police presence in the area as the search continues.
During the initial response, emergency services recovered an unconscious man from the water. Unfortunately, despite immediate medical intervention, the 67-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. Humberside Police stated that the circumstances surrounding his death are not considered suspicious.
Witnesses have described the harsh weather conditions. Local photographer Darrin Stevens, who lives just 250 meters from the coast, remarked on the bitterly cold weather, stating, “The sea could have been very dangerous… If they are in that water, they do not have long.” He emphasized the need for caution given the severe conditions.
In light of the ongoing search, HM Coastguard reiterated the dangers associated with cold water swimming. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has issued warnings about the risk of cold water shock, particularly for individuals entering water temperatures of 15°C or below. The average sea temperature around the UK and Ireland during this time of year hovers between 6°C and 10°C.
Gareth Morrison, head of water safety for the RNLI, urged members of the public to exercise caution. “We are urging anyone entering the water to be aware of the dangers, check sea conditions carefully, and to understand their own limitations,” he stated. He further noted that with sea temperatures expected to drop further, the risks are compounded by the weather conditions and individual health issues.
The search efforts in Yorkshire follow another tragic incident where a 51-year-old man lost his life while swimming in the sea at Brighton on New Year’s Day. Local authorities were alerted shortly after 10:35 when the swimmer was recovered close to Brighton Palace Pier.
As the search continues, local residents and emergency services remain vigilant, hoping for a positive outcome amidst the challenging conditions along the coast.
