Flash floods cover first floor of homes as heavy rain returns to northern Thailand

Flash floods submerged the first floor of homes as heavy rain battered northern Thailand.

Footage shows brown floodwater covering the streets and swamping houses in the Wang Sa Phung district of Loei province on October 3.

Strong downpours pummeled the area at around 12:30am, prompting rescue teams to evacuate stranded villagers by boat. Some residents were forced to take refuge on their roofs as their homes filled up with water.

The Phu Rea district was also struck by the deluge. The flood had receded by morning and left behind a muddy aftermath.

Runoff was continuing to flow toward the Mueang Loei district. Provincial officials have warned residents in the area to prepare to evacute.

Heavy rains have been ravaging northern Thailand in recent weeks. The seasonal downpours have caused severe floods as rivers bordering Myanmar spilled over into communities.

While in September, Typhoon Yagi battered the country, killing 42 in northern Thailand and leaving thousands more displaced.

Thailand and neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia are in their annual monsoon rainy season which sees soaring temperatures followed by powerful rain storms in the afternoon leading to widespread flash floods.