Wednesday, Oct 21, 2026
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Tamil Nadu Rain: Schools Shut in Five Districts as Heavy Showers Continue

Schools in five districts in Tamil Nadu will remain closed on Wednesday, October 21, after heavy overnight rainfall over a number of parts of the state. Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Ranipet districts are among those affected.

Heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu prompts school closures in Chennai and four other districts. | Photo Credit: https://www.pexels.com/
Heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu prompts school closures in Chennai and four other districts. | Photo Credit: https://www.pexels.com/

District collectors announced the school holiday as persistent rain hit the region and weather officials warned of more showers. The closure is intended to protect students’ safety as waterlogging and difficult travel conditions are making it difficult for students to travel to school.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued rainfall in Tamil Nadu over the next few days, with some districts likely to receive heavy to very heavy showers.

Tamil Nadu School Holiday: Five Districts Affected

The school holiday announced for October 21 covers the following districts:

  • Chennai
  • Tiruvallur
  • Kancheepuram
  • Chengalpattu
  • Ranipet

The announcement applies to schools in these districts. Students and parents need to check official district administration notices and school communications for any further updates.

The closings have come as heavy overnight rain hit Chennai and other parts of the region. The waterlogging in some areas can disrupt road traffic and make it difficult for students and their families to travel to work as well as for students themselves.

The IMD Forecasts More Rain Across Tamil Nadu

The IMD has forecast light to moderate rainfall until 10 am in 16 districts including Chennai and parts of southern and delta Tamil Nadu.

The overall weather outlook indicates that the rains will continue across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal for the next few days. Most likely there is widespread rain on October 21 and 22, with scattered rain in some areas between October 23 and October 26.

The intensity of rainfall may vary from district to district, depending on weather conditions and the movement of developing weather systems.

Heavy to Very Heavy Rain Warning for Southern Districts

The weather department has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places in Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari on Wednesday, October 21.

Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching 40 to 50 kmph are also possible in some locations. Heavy rainfall is also expected in parts of southern Tamil Nadu on October 22.

Many other districts might also experience heavy showers and thunderstorms during the forecast period. Residents are advised to follow official weather alerts, particularly in areas prone to waterlogging and localised flooding.

Developing Weather Systems May Extend the Wet Spell

Weather officials are monitoring developing systems over the Bay of Bengal and nearby regions that could influence rainfall across southern India.

A low-pressure area was expected to form over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Tamil Nadu coast, while another weather system was likely to develop over the southeast and adjoining east-central Bay of Bengal around October 23.

These systems could contribute to continued rainfall across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal. The actual impact will depend on how the systems develop and move.

Safety Advisory for Residents

With rain expected to continue in several areas, residents should take precautions while travelling and avoid unnecessary risks.

People are advised to avoid walking or driving through flooded roads, stay away from overflowing water bodies and keep a safe distance from exposed electrical installations. Parents should follow official school and district announcements rather than relying on unverified holiday messages.

The situation may change as rainfall conditions develop. Residents should monitor updates from the IMD and local authorities for the latest information on rainfall warnings and school closures.

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