Historic city battles rising waters
The deluge has struck six districts: Phak Hai, Bang Ban, Sena, Bang Sai, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya and Bang Pa-In. In Hua Wiang, Wat Bandai Chang temple is partially submerged, with the ordination hall surrounded by 70 cm of water. A nearby meditation centre is nearly entirely flooded.
Residents along the Noi River are forced to use boats, with waters creeping dangerously close to the supports of Hua Siang Bridge. In Bang Ban and Phak Hai, locals desperately try to protect their homes and farmland from the surging floodwaters.
Why the dam released so much water
The National Water Resources Committee authorised the increased release to manage heavy inflows from recent rainfalls. But the consequences are severe: 87 subdistricts across 550 villages are affected, leaving 25,024 households under water. Chetha Mosikarat, director of the Disaster Prevention Authority, confirmed one death and promised enhanced aid to affected areas.
The Irrigation Department opened multiple sluices to reduce pressure on the river system:
• Tanueang Canal: sluice raised 15 cm
• Wat Bai Bua sluice: opened 10 cm
• Bang Ban-Ban Pan fields: water channelled through Bang Chanee, Gob Chao and Nam Tao outlets
Despite widespread flooding, historical landmarks like Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Kasattrathirat remain safe thanks to protective barriers from the Department of Fine Arts. Industrial zones are also safeguarded by reinforced sluices.
What lies ahead for Ayutthaya?
Authorities warn that water levels outside the barriers may continue to rise. Residents in low-lying areas are urged to remain vigilant. Rescue teams are deployed to assist those affected. For many locals, flooding is a familiar threat, but this wave is particularly severe and could worsen.
Once the capital of the Siamese Kingdom, Ayutthaya now faces a different conqueror: water. Dramatic images of submerged temples and fleeing residents are circulating worldwide, highlighting the scale of the disaster.