Tamil Nadu flash flood risk: More school holidays likely as IMD warns of heavy rain till October 29; Chennai and other districts on alert

Some schools in Chennai and neighbouring districts have announced closures amid continued heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of very heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and squally weather over the coming days. Parents and students should check with their respective schools and district administrations for the latest holiday announcements, as closures may vary by district. The weather department's latest warning, issued on October 23, forecasts very heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry on October 23, 24, 25 and 26, followed by heavy rain from October 27 to 29. The continuing wet spell raises concerns about waterlogging, travel disruptions and flooding in vulnerable areas.

Are schools closed in Chennai today, October 23?

Schools in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Ranipet have seen closures in recent days as heavy rainfall continues across Tamil Nadu. With the IMD forecasting very heavy rain from October 23 to 26, some schools have continued to announce holidays as a precaution against waterlogging and flooding. Parents and students should check the latest announcements from their respective district administrations and schools for Friday, October 23, as closure orders may vary by district depending on local weather conditions.

Read more - Bengaluru weather today: Rain & thunderstorms to continue till October 25; IMD warns of heavy showers across Karnataka over weekend

IMD weather forecast: Very heavy rain till October 26

According to the IMD's sub-division-wise warning issued on October 23, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are expected to experience very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and squally weather during the first four days of the forecast period.

The department has forecast the following weather conditions:

• October 23: Very heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and squally weather.
• October 24: Very heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and squally weather.
• October 25: Very heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and squally weather.
• October 26: Very heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and squally weather.
• October 27: Heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and squally weather.
• October 28: Heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and squally weather.
• October 29: Heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and squally weather.

The forecast covers Tamil Nadu and Puducherry at the sub-division level. Rainfall intensity and warnings may vary between individual districts, so residents should follow the latest district-specific IMD bulletins.

Chennai rain alert: Waterlogging and flooding remain concerns

Chennai and surrounding areas have experienced intense rainfall in recent days. The downpours have raised concerns about waterlogged roads, disrupted commutes and the possibility of flooding in low-lying localities. Civic authorities have been undertaking precautionary measures to address rain-related emergencies. Residents should remain alert to local advisories, particularly when travelling through areas prone to waterlogging.

Heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning can also create risks for pedestrians and motorists. Residents should avoid flooded roads, open drains and water bodies, and exercise caution around electrical installations during heavy showers.

Will schools remain closed in the coming week?

With the IMD forecasting very heavy rainfall through October 26, more school holidays may be announced in districts expected to receive intense rain. District Collectors and local administrations will issue fresh orders depending on weather conditions and the risk of waterlogging and flooding. Parents should check official announcements from their respective district administrations and schools for updates on upcoming school days. The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu through October 29, raising the possibility of further weather-related disruptions in the coming days.