Updated at 1pm

THE US EMBASSY in Thailand has issued an emergency alert to US citizens warning them of a possible terrorist attack in Bangkok.

In an alert released today, the embassy said that “foreign terrorists may be currently looking to conduct attacks against tourist areas in Bangkok in the near future.”

Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs today updated its travel advice sheet for Thailand to include a note on the US warning, but has not altered its security status for the country.

The department advises Irish citizens that violent confrontations have been associated with political rallies in Thailand and says visitors should “avoid all travel to Preah Vihear, Ta Kwai and Ta Muen temples near the Thai-Cambodian border”.

The US embassy is advising its citizens to “exercise caution when visiting public areas where large groups of Western tourists gather” in Bangkok and to be particularly vigilant for unattended backs or packages.

The embassy also recommends that Americans maintain a low profile in public areas, particularly in places popular with foreign tourists.