This is the dramatic moment distressed passengers aboard a sinking boat waved desperately for help as strong winds overturned the vessel in Russia.

Reports said the boat had set off in calm conditions but was struck by a sudden gust of wind, causing it to tilt sharply and begin sinking stern-first in the Krasnoglinsky District on July 12.

Footage shows two people standing on the bow, waving and shouting for help as water floods the watercraft.

Within seconds, the vessel tips further, prompting residents to rush from the shore to assist.

Emergency services and bystanders managed to rescue five of the six people on board.

The body of a woman, 34, from Moscow, identified by local media as Olfiya K, was later recovered by divers following a search operation.

The boat had been travelling along the Volga River in the mid-afternoon when the incident occurred.

Authorities have since launched an investigation into safety protocols, weather alerts, and the conduct of the boat's operator.