A major multi-agency coastal search and rescue operation is in full swing off the coast of Withernsea in East Yorkshire after emergency services received reports of several individuals in distress in the water.
Emergency Response Launched
The alarm was raised at approximately 3:10pm on Friday, January 2, 2026. HM Coastguard immediately coordinated a large-scale response to the incident near the popular Yorkshire coastal town.
Multiple assets were scrambled to the scene. The Coastguard deployed a search and rescue helicopter and a fixed-wing aircraft to scour the area from the air. On the ground and sea, specialist teams mobilised rapidly.
Full Scale of the Rescue Effort
The rescue operation involves a significant force from across the region. Coastguard Rescue Teams from Withernsea, Hornsea, and Hull are conducting shoreline searches.
Lifeboat crews are playing a critical role in the response. The RNLI's inshore lifeboat from Withernsea and the all-weather lifeboat from Bridlington are on the water, joined by Humber Rescue's inshore lifeboat.
Other emergency services are providing crucial support on standby. Yorkshire Ambulance Service has deployed resources alongside an air ambulance. Humberside Police and Humberside Fire and Rescue Service are also in attendance, managing the scene and assisting with the operation.
Ongoing Situation and Public Information
The situation remains dynamic as the search continues. Authorities have confirmed they are looking for a 'number of people' reported to be in difficulty, though the exact circumstances leading to the incident are not yet clear.
Such incidents highlight the unpredictable and often dangerous nature of the UK coastline, even outside the traditional summer months. The public is advised to avoid the immediate area to allow emergency services to work unimpeded.
This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as the major coastal search operation progresses.
