This is the apocalyptic moment thousands of dragonflies attacked beachgoers in Rhode Island, United States.

The creatures swarmed across the sand and divebombed locals sprawled on sunbeds along the Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly on July 27.

Footage shows panic from residents as the dragonfly apocalypse descended. Onlookers even likened the terrifying phenomenon to 'scenes like those from a Biblical plague'.

One said: 'I was enjoying a nice day at Misquamicut State Beach until we endured a dragonfly apocalypse.'

Some beach attendees sought refuge under cover, while others hurriedly retreated to their cars to escape the unexpected insect invasion.

The dragonfly invasion is thought to have been caused by seasonal migration patterns, feeding habits or even climate change.

Experts said that many dragonfly species migrate, and beaches can be resting or feeding stops along their journey.

However, unusual wind patterns and fluctuating temperatures can influence dragonfly behaviour. Certain weather conditions might concentrate dragonflies in specific areas, including beaches.