A hanging bridge battered by powerful currents from a flash flood collapsed amid heavy rain in Thailand.

The path, made from wood and metal cables connecting remote villages in Nan province, was tilted to one side and partially submerged when the river level rose on August 21.

Footage shows the bridge snapping off when tree branches and other debris being carried by the deluge crashed into the structure.

Scared watched on the banks as the torrents destroyed the bridge.

Local Nichanan Somsaeng said: 'The flood destroyed our bridge in Ban Duang Kham. Tourists came there before to take pictures of the beautiful place. It was terrifying.'

Nan governor Chainarong Wongyai said on August 22 that the rain had ceased, though 10 districts in the province remain heavily flooded.

Authorities reported more than 20 cars were damaged in the floods which also spilled into homes and shops in the northern region.

The Thai Meteorological Department forecasted heavy rains across Thailand due to the monsoon season. Residents in low-lying areas were urged to prepare for flash floods.

Thailand and neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia are at the start of their annual monsoon rainy season which sees soaring temperatures followed by powerful rain storms. The rudimentary infrastructure often struggles with the deluge, leading to widespread flash floods.