At around 4.50pm yesterday (Monday), their grey Volvo XC40 was travelling along Greets House Road near Welburn, Malton, towards the A64.
A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said: "Just prior to the junction a large branch from a tree fell onto the vehicle, trapping the occupants, a man and a woman in their 80s, inside the vehicle.
"Fortunately a local business owner was able to use a telehandler to partially lift the tree which allowed the fire service to free both casualties. Our thanks go to them for their assistance.
"The injured man and woman were airlifted to hospital with serious injuries where they remain at this time.
"The road remained closed until 11.45pm to allow for investigation work and the road to be cleared.
"Anyone who was in the area at the time and witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage and has not yet spoken to the police is asked to email mark.patterson@northyorkshire.police.uk
"Please quote reference 12250145287 when passing on information."
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