Chennai flash flood risk: More school holidays, waterlogging & heavy rain; what IMD's latest warning means for Tamil Nadu till October 26

Schools in several districts of Tamil Nadu may remain closed as heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of continued downpours, thunderstorms, lightning and squally weather over the coming days. Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Ranipet announced school holidays on Wednesday, October 21, following heavy overnight rain. The IMD has forecast very heavy rainfall in parts of Tamil Nadu from October 22 to October 25, with heavy rain likely to continue on October 26. Thunderstorms, lightning and squally weather are also expected during the period.

The continuing wet spell comes amid the likelihood of a low-pressure area developing over the southwest Bay of Bengal and the adjoining Tamil Nadu coast. The weather system could influence rainfall across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal.

Another low-pressure area is also expected to develop over the Bay of Bengal around October 23, potentially affecting weather conditions over the coming days.

Which Tamil Nadu districts announced school holidays?

On Wednesday, October 21, school holidays were announced in the following five districts following heavy rainfall:

• Chennai
• Tiruvallur
• Kancheepuram
• Chengalpattu
• Ranipet

The respective district administrations announced the closures as a precautionary measure amid persistent rainfall and concerns about students travelling to school. The orders reported on Wednesday applied to that day.

Are schools closed today, October 22, in Tamil Nadu?

With heavy to very heavy rainfall forecast to continue across Tamil Nadu, several districts have announced school closures for Thursday, October 22. Parents and students should check the latest district-wise updates, as holidays may vary depending on rainfall intensity and local conditions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast very heavy rain through October 25, followed by heavy rainfall on October 26. Residents are advised to follow official announcements from district Collectors and school administrations for the latest closure information.

IMD forecast: Rain likely to continue until October 26

The forecast indicates that wet weather could persist across Tamil Nadu and neighbouring regions for several days. Residents should monitor updated IMD bulletins and local advisories, particularly in areas vulnerable to waterlogging.

Any further school closures will depend on decisions by the respective district administrations after assessing the weather conditions.