A strong summer storm wreaked havoc as it tore through central Thailand on Monday afternoon.

The inclement weather struck Nakhon Nayok province, knocking down billboards and ripping up building roofs on May 8.

In the Nakhon Nayok municipality, uprooted trees and floods hampered drivers and caused traffic chaos.

The storm also blew down electric poles, resulting in widespread power outages, while lightning struck other areas and sparked fires.

Nakhon Nayok governor Bancha Chaowarin has ordered emergency services to assist affected residents and closely monitor the situation as the province has been battered by storms in recent weeks.

Thailand and neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia are approaching their annual monsoon rainy season which sees soaring temperatures followed by powerful rain storms in the afternoon leading to widespread flash floods.