This is the moment two primary school children were rescued from a mud pit, including one who was buried up to his neck and narrowly escaped death.

The youngsters became trapped in thick mud while playing in a dried-up riverbed in Qujing, Yunnan, China, on January 1.

A passerby spotted the children in distress and used an excavator to rescue them.

Some of the boys managed to climb out of the mud on their own, but at least two remained trapped and were suffering from hypothermia when they were finally freed.

Video footage shows the older boy, covered in mud, being led away after being rescued.

The second child, who was buried up to his neck, was pulled to safety by an adult who climbed into the excavator's shovel.

A second video captures the heavy construction equipment extending its arm and shovel to reach the younger child and bring him to safety.

Both children were taken by their teacher, who happened to be nearby, for medical attention.

Local authorities have urged parents and educators to ensure children avoid hazardous areas, such as dried-up riverbeds.

Hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when the body's temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). It can be fatal if left untreated.

Hypothermia can cause an irregular heartbeat, which can lead to heart failure and death. It can also make it difficult to think clearly or move well.