Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry Schools Closed on October 22: Heavy rains, cyclone alerts prompt closures

Tamil Nadu schools shut today, October 22

In Tamil Nadu, schools in Chennai, Cuddalore, Villupuram, Ranipet, and Thoothukudi will remain closed. The Chennai District Collector Rashmi Siddharth Jagade said the decision was taken after the IMD predicted heavy rainfall across northern coastal districts. Colleges in all affected districts, except Thoothukudi, will also remain closed.

The IMD has warned that a cyclonic circulation over the South Bay of Bengal is moving northwards and is likely to impact northern Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and southern Andhra Pradesh by Wednesday afternoon. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, and disaster response teams have been placed on alert.

Chief Minister MK Stalin reviewed the state’s preparedness, directing officials to monitor vulnerable areas and ensure timely evacuation if needed.

Puducherry schools closed on October 22

The Puducherry and Karaikal administrations have declared a holiday for schools and colleges following continuous rainfall since Tuesday noon. Home and Education Minister A. Namassivayam said, “Due to heavy rains pounding the Union Territory, all schools and colleges in Puducherry and Karaikal regions will remain closed on Wednesday.”

Officials reported that nearly 3 cm of rainfall was recorded between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., leading to waterlogging in several areas. Minister K. Lakshminarayanan held an emergency meeting with revenue, PWD, and local administration departments, instructing teams to “prepare all machinery to respond to any exigency.”

Andhra Pradesh schools shut due to rains on October 22

In Andhra Pradesh, schools in Chittoor, Tirupati, Nellore, and Bapatla districts have been closed amid an IMD orange alert predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall. The depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify and move toward the north Tamil Nadu–south Andhra Pradesh coast by Thursday, October 23.

District collectors have directed officials to monitor flood-prone zones and ensure that emergency relief measures are ready. Coastal residents have also been urged to stay indoors and avoid travel until conditions improve.

According to the IMD, the deep depression may strengthen further as it nears land, bringing widespread rain and strong winds along the coastal belts. Administrations across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andhra Pradesh have urged residents to stay alert and follow official advisories.

(With inputs from agencies)