Chennai Rains Shut Schools in Five TN Districts
Schools across five districts in Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, remained closed on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, following heavy overnight rainfall and warnings of further downpours. District authorities announced the precautionary holiday in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Ranipet as the northeast monsoon intensified, causing waterlogging in several areas.
Chennai Rain Forces School Closures in Five Districts
District Collectors ordered schools to remain closed on Wednesday to ensure student safety amid persistent rainfall and difficult travelling conditions.
Several neighbourhoods in Chennai experienced heavy showers overnight, leaving roads waterlogged and affecting normal movement.
According to the Regional Meteorological Centre, Meenambakkam recorded 12 cm of rainfall, followed by Nungambakkam with 11 cm and Taramani with 10 cm.
Madhavaram received 9 cm, while Villivakkam and Nandanam recorded 8 cm each.
IMD Issues Heavy Rain Alerts Across Tamil Nadu
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued rainfall across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal as weather conditions develop over the southwest Bay of Bengal.
An emerging low-pressure system near the Tamil Nadu coast is expected to contribute to further rainfall.
Orange alerts have been issued for several districts, warning of heavy to very heavy showers.
The weather department has also forecast thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds in parts of the state over the coming days.
Chennai Waterlogging Raises Concerns Amid Northeast Monsoon
Water stagnation was reported along major roads and in low-lying residential areas of Chennai following continuous rainfall.
Authorities are monitoring the situation as further showers could increase the risk of localised flooding.
Residents have been advised to exercise caution while travelling and avoid waterlogged areas.
The northeast monsoon is an important source of seasonal rainfall for Tamil Nadu, particularly Chennai and surrounding coastal districts.
Further school closures will depend on weather conditions and announcements by district administrations.
