A group of snowmobilers had a terrifying encounter with a polar bear that tried to intercept them as they crossed a snowy plain in Yakutia, Russia.

As the travellers were heading towards the village of Bykov, a wild polar bear began running alongside them before attempting to bite the filmer.

Footage from May 31 shows the moment the bear just missing the filmer's vehicle.

Polar bears can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h and they are categorised as an apex predator.

In a heart-stopping incident in Yakutia, Russia, a polar bear nearly attacked a group of snowmobilers as they made their way to the village of Bykov. The encounter took place on the 31st of May, 2023, as the bear ran alongside the moving snowmobile, closely eyeing the people. Suddenly, it darted towards the sleigh where a passenger was seated, coming perilously close to biting him. The shocking moment was captured on video by a witness, who could only manage to shout out in alarm. Fortunately, the animal missed its target, leaving the snowmobilers shaken but unharmed.

Polar bears, known for their powerful land locomotion, can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h, making them formidable creatures capable of chasing down snowmobiles. Such encounters pose a significant risk to drivers and passengers, as demonstrated in this incident. While the motive behind the bear's actions remains unclear, it is speculated that the animal may have intended to frighten the people rather than actively attack them.