A powerful storm tore roofs from homes in front of shocked neighbours as the monsoon season nears in Thailand.

Footage shows freak winds with torrential rain ripping metal sheets from the top of huts in Loei province on April 5.

Across the street were stunned residents looked on helplessly as the properties were damaged.

The sudden severe weather came weeks before the tropical country entered its annual rainy season.

Resident Wachira Vipassa said: 'The summer storm hit our province. It happened at Wan Saphung district at 3:39 pm.'

Thailand and neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia are nearing 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.