This is the dramatic moment a weir collapsed from continuous heavy rain battering Thailand this week.

The aging concrete structure had been controlling the water at a reservoir in Chaiyaphum province but pressure from the swollen lake became too much to bear on September 27.

Swaths of banks eroded by storms collapsed followed by the footbridge over the weir. Water began surging through the channels at the side and into the section of the reservoir below - sparking fears that nearby villages will be submerged by the deluge.

Community leaders urged residents nearby to monitor the water level and move their belongings to higher ground if rain continues.

Narong Inphuwong, chief of the Ban Non Muang village where the reservoir is located, said an estimated 1,000 homes in four villages will be impacted by the collapse, as they had relied on the weir for their water supply.

Nong Bua Rawe district chief Puttipong Muangsilpachai said the provincial officials have been informed of the situation. He said personnel are prepared to conduct emergency evacuations if necessary.

He said: 'The Wang Takhe Subdistrict Administrative Organisation has been instructed to create an emergency unit to provide aid.

'Residents should stay informed by following updates from their community leaders. It is important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings in case of flash floods.'

Chaiyaphum deputy governor Sombat Trisak had arrived at the scene for an inspection. He has ordered village authorities to deliver assistance and repair the reservoir breach, local media reported.

Officials who had gathered at the scene said the public purse would be raided to pay for emergency repairs.

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

Bangkok and large parts of the north and northeast of the country have been swamped with flash floods from tropical thunderstorms.