Chennai rains: Flash flood risk rises as IMD forecasts very heavy showers, thunderstorms and gusty winds across Tamil Nadu; check affected districts

Heavy rainfall is expected to continue across Tamil Nadu, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of heavy to very heavy showers, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds in several districts. Schools in Chennai and neighbouring districts have been declared closed on Wednesday, October 21, following heavy overnight rainfall. The IMD has forecast continued heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places in Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph at one or two places. Several other districts are also likely to receive heavy rain, with residents advised to monitor weather alerts and take precautions amid the possibility of localised flooding.

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Chennai school holiday: Schools closed in five districts

Schools in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram and Ranipet have been declared closed on Wednesday, October 21, following heavy rainfall, according to local media reports. District administrations announced the holiday in view of the prevailing weather conditions. The closures come as the IMD forecasts further rainfall across Tamil Nadu. Parents and students should check announcements from their respective district administrations and schools for any further updates.

IMD rain alert: These Tamil Nadu districts may receive heavy rain

According to the IMD forecast, heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph at one or two places is likely in the following districts:

Southern Tamil Nadu: Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari may receive heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places.

Western Tamil Nadu: The Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Erode and Tiruppur are likely to experience heavy rain.

Central and interior districts: Namakkal, Karur, Theni, Dindigul, Madurai, Tenkasi and Virudhunagar are also under the heavy rainfall forecast.

Delta and coastal districts: Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai may receive heavy showers.

Other southern districts: Sivaganga and Ramanathapuram are also likely to experience heavy rainfall.

The forecast also covers the Karaikal region.

The IMD has warned that thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds could accompany the rainfall in the affected areas.

Flash flood risk amid persistent rainfall

Continued heavy rainfall can increase the risk of localised flooding, waterlogging and disruption to road traffic, particularly in low-lying areas and locations with inadequate drainage. Residents in districts under the rainfall warning should avoid crossing flooded roads or flowing water and remain cautious near water bodies. Motorists should allow additional travel time and follow local authorities' instructions if roads become inundated.

People should also monitor official weather bulletins for changes in rainfall intensity and district-level warnings.

Low-pressure area likely over Bay of Bengal

The IMD has forecast the formation of a low-pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Tamil Nadu coast. The developing weather system is expected to contribute to continued rainfall across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal in the coming days. The department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal until October 22, followed by isolated heavy rainfall on subsequent days through October 26.