A river burst its banks and caused floods after heavy downpours in southern Thailand.

After days of torrential rains, muddy water gushed in a flash flood and submerged a bridge that was undergoing repairs in Chumphon province on July 21.

The water then overflowed to nearby villages and farmlands causing extensive damage to countless properties downhill.

Resident Surapon Klaimaluan, 53, said he witnessed the moment the water broke through the river before it submerged his property.

He said: ‘I live only 200metres away from the river. I’m relieved that my family and I left before things were worse but I am still worried about starting again after this.’

Aside from residents, local farmers were also affected by the massive flooding as their crops have been damaged nearing harvest.

Provincial officials have evacuated residents in low-lying areas and provided shelter and food relief to those who were affected.

Typhoon Cempaka made landfall in the coastal area of Guandong province, China on July 20 but its impact have been felt in neighbouring Asian countries.

Cempaka is the first typhoon that made landfall in China this year and the seventh weather disturbance to turn into a typhoon this year.