This is the shocking moment a violent storm overturned tables and chairs during a tornado in China.

Footage shows strong winds battering a barbecue stall in Nanning, Guangxi, on August 17, with furniture and other items sent flying through the air.

Passersby were seen scrambling for safety as the storm struck at around 9:54 pm local time. Several motorcycles were also knocked over during the chaos.

Witnesses said the freak weather lasted for around five minutes, damaging outdoor setups.

The Nanning Meteorological Bureau reported that the sudden event was triggered by a combination of a tropical depression over the South China Sea and local atmospheric conditions.

Officials said the region is expected to remain under the influence of the tropical system over the coming days, and urged residents to stay alert.

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.