Weather forecasters are predicting strong winds, which could see swells of up to 19ft, according to one expert.

Capt Bill Estill, harbour master at Whitby, said he has seen the weather forecasts and he expects conditions to be particularly bad.

“It is impossible to predict what sea conditions will be like, but it is going to be rough and not suitable for boating,” said Capt Estill. “The weather forecast is such that we would not expect any boating activity over the weekend.”

Paul Kilpatrick, chairman of Whitby Charter Skippers’ Association, said there could be swells of up to 19ft.

“If that is the case, they will be the biggest I have ever seen.

“I don’t think you will see anybody in Whitby going out to sea over the weekend,” he said.

The forecast is dismal with heavy rain and strong winds predicted today. Things are not likely to get much better in the coming days with more rain forecast and temperatures set to reach a maximum of 4 degrees Celsius.