Thailand's King Bhumibol, the world's longest-reigning monarch, has died at age 88.

The complex network of flood defences erected to shield Thailand’s capital from the country’s worst floods in nearly 60 years was put to the test today as coastal high tides hit their peak but no major breaches were reported.

Thailand is marking the 83rd birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world’s longest reigning monarch, but elaborate celebrations fail to mask concern over his health and the future of the royal institution.

Princess Galyani Vadhana, the elder sister of Thailand’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej, died today aged 84.