This is the terrifying moment a tornado was seen damaging buildings during a storm in northern Thailand.

Footage captured by resident Damh Pichet shows the massive wind vortex swirling through the residential area of Don Thong, Phitsanulok.

The destructive whirlwind uprooted trees as it battered the region on the afternoon of July 24.

Local media reported that more than 20 buildings were damaged, including temples, school buildings, and houses.

Mr Moon Boonkong, 70, reportedly suffered injuries from glass shards that cut his body. He was later taken to Phutthachinraj Hospital for treatment.

Authorities said the tornado was caused by Typhoon Wipha, which has been pounding Thailand with strong winds and torrential rain.

The Thai Meteorological Department on Monday predicted more heavy rain and high seas until July 24. It added that around half of Thailand will be battered with increased rainfall due to the typhoon, which made landfall in China's southern Guangdong province on July 20.

Sukanyanee Yawinchan, director-general of the Thai Meteorological Department, said Wipha has been downgraded to a tropical depression after hitting neighbouring Laos and was expected to further weaken into a low-pressure area.

A tornado forms when warm, moist air meets cool, dry air during severe storms, creating a spinning funnel that becomes a tornado once it touches the ground.

Often linked to violent storms like supercells, tornadoes can cause severe damage alongside heavy rain, strong winds, thunder, and lightning.