A couple's engagement day turned into a life-threatening ordeal on Monday when their car was washed into a river by floodwaters in Sanmenxia, Henan province. However, their love prevailed as the man made a heroic decision to save his girlfriend before himself.

The couple's journey took a dangerous turn when they encountered a flood while driving through Daijia village in Lushi county at around 6 am. Their vehicle was carried away by the currents, leaving them stranded about 20 to 30 meters away from shore.

The couple climbed out onto the roof of their car to wait for rescue. The man, without hesitation, used his own body as a shield to protect his girlfriend from the raging waters, holding her tightly in his arms, according to a video circulated online.

After rescue efforts using a crane to retrieve the couple failed, rescuers enlisted the help of a drone to deliver life jackets to the couple.

Due to the weight limitations of the drone, the man ensured that his girlfriend was the first to receive a life jacket.

The drone then traversed the river, securing a safety rope between the two banks. The man insisted on his girlfriend's rescue before his own.

The entire rescue operation lasted over three hours.

Netizens have been deeply moved by the couple's story, flooding social media with comments praising their love and bravery. One netizen wrote, "This is the epitome of a perfect engagement — I will protect you with my life," while another remarked, "True love shines brightest through the toughest trials."

Providing an update on the couple, a friend revealed that both were taken to the hospital following their rescue and that they are in good health.