Cheering locals launched a spectacular spinning helix rocket to mark the rainy season in Thailand.

Residents lit up the homemade explosive using torches, with the rocket emitting jets of smoke before blasting off into the sky over Kalasin province during the yearly Rocket Festival on May 21.

Governor Supasit said: 'The festival aims to promote the local traditions and heritage among the residents, as well as boost tourism in the region to stimulate economic growth.

'We encourage the community to always be engaged in these events, and for people to use their leisure time in meaningful and productive ways.

'The festival also provided an opportunity for government agencies and local residents to collaborate and work together.'

Sawaeng Uttarak, mayor of the Kutwa locality, said: 'The collaboration between the Kutwa municipality, the Kalasin Provincial Office, and various related organisations were instrumental in organising the two-day festival.'

Thailand's Rocket Festival is held annually to honour Phaya Thaen, the Buddhist deity of rainmaking, as farmers and villagers pray for rain for a bountiful harvest. They believe the rockets will reach the clouds and help to stimulate impending monsoon downpours, which last until October or November.

Authorities also hope to pass down the decades-long tradition by organising spectacular shows that will fire the imaginations of younger residents.

The Thailand Meteorological Department declared the official start of the rainy monsoon season on May 22.

The period sees soaring temperatures followed by powerful rain storms in the afternoon leading to widespread flash floods.