This is the terrifying moment a powerful storm lashed a house in northern Thailand.

CCTV footage shows the tempest battering the family's porch and blowing away furniture and debris in Chiang Rai province on April 26.

A pet cat was seen trying to take shelter as it was pummeled by the gales.

A resident, Sukanya Kaewsatorn, said: 'The storm came after we let our pet cat and dog outside. The dog escaped to the back of the house, but our poor cat was too small and was almost swept away. Fortunately, both of them are safe.'

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasted that day that northern Thailand, including Chiang Rai province, would experience hot weather and haze during the day, followed by isolated thundershowers and gusty winds in the afternoon.

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