This is the dramatic moment hard-packed snow collapses from a roof with a thunderous sound, sending a man who sat beneath the eaves running for safety.

The close call was captured on surveillance camera footage outside a house in Huaibei in Anhui, China, at 10:52 am on February 23.

In the video, the resident was seen sunbathing in the courtyard as he sat on a small plastic stool.

Seemingly grateful for the warm weather, he soon discovered the hidden danger it posed as melting snow came falling from the roof right over his head.

He sprung off his seat and briefly disappeared among a white mist created by the falling snow.

It came down with such force that it even dragged down the railings.

Fortunately, the man was able to escape any harm thanks to his fast reaction and soon reemerged next to the garage, away from the roof.