The flooding situation in Ayutthaya has deteriorated quickly today and we advise that tourists now stay away from the ancient city. Although some tourist attractions are still not affected by the floods, the number of flooded temples is increasing rapidly. In addition, the Governor of Ayutthaya has warned that the situation will most likely worsen within the next three days. Even if you could get there today, it is most likely that you will be stranded in your hotel. All inter-provincial buses from Bangkok heading north have now been suspended due to flooding. The State Railway also said that trains on the Northern Line are only going as far as Ayutthaya. However, we have had unconfirmed reports that they are not even getting that far. The state railway Hotline 1690 is continually busy.
The following pictures were taken today by Reuters cameramen in Ayutthaya.
Residents push their belongings on boats along a flooded street in Ayutthaya province, nearly 80 km (50 miles) north of Bangkok, October 6, 2011. At least 224 people have died in flooding in Thailand since mid-July and water has inundated the 400-year-old Chai Wattanaram temple in the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a World Heritage Site, officials said on Tuesday.
Prisoners wade through a flooded jail as they evacuate to another jail at Ayutthaya prison in Ayutthaya province, nearly 80 km (50 miles) north of Bangkok October 6, 2011.
Residents carrying their belongings wade through a flooded street in Ayutthaya province, nearly 80 km (50 miles) north of Bangkok, October 6, 2011.
A resident pushes his belongings as he wade through a flooded street in Ayutthaya province, nearly 80 km (50 miles) north of Bangkok, October 6, 2011.
Thanks for the Ayutthaya updates. Those Reuters photos are quite something to see! Hopefully there won’t be any damage to the ruins/wats.