Torrential Rains Force Widespread School Closures Across Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu; UP Extends Break Amid Heatwave

In the wake of relentless monsoon rains pounding parts of South India, authorities in Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have taken the precautionary step of closing schools across several districts. As of Monday, June 16, 2025, widespread weather-related disruptions—including flooding, uprooted trees, and rising river levels—have triggered emergency responses in these states, resulting in sudden closures at numerous educational institutions.

Kerala: Red Alert Sparks Closures Across Six Districts

Kerala has been particularly affected, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing red alerts for multiple districts due to persistent downpours. Educational institutions across Malappuram, Kannur, Kasaragod, Wayanad, Thrissur, and Kozhikode have been ordered shut on June 16 as authorities brace for worsening weather.

Kozhikode District Collector Snehil Kumar Singh confirmed the district-wide closure of all educational institutions, citing safety concerns amid heavy rainfall and the red alert status. The shutdown includes Anganwadis, madrasas, and tuition centres, in addition to regular schools.

The monsoon has not only caused river levels to rise dangerously but has also prompted authorities to open shutters at multiple dams as a flood control measure. Emergency services remain on high alert as more rain is forecast in the coming days.

Karnataka: Udupi and Dakshina Kannada Suspend Classes

Neighboring Karnataka is facing similar conditions. With torrential rains continuing to hammer the coastal and Malnad regions, district administrations in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada have declared a one-day holiday for all schools on Monday.

Officials stated that the decision comes amid widespread waterlogging, minor flooding, and increasing risks of landslides. Orders from the respective Deputy Commissioners mandate the closure of all educational institutions, including Anganwadis, government schools, and private schools up to the high school level.

The IMD has also issued a red alert for various districts in Karnataka, further validating the precautionary measures taken by local administrations.

Tamil Nadu: Select Taluks in the Nilgiris Remain Closed

Further south, the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu is experiencing strong winds and significant rainfall. Local media reports indicate that schools in Ooty (Udhagamandalam), Kundah, Gudalur, and Pandalur taluks will remain closed on Monday, June 16.

Though Tamil Nadu has not received a red alert from the IMD at this point, localized weather conditions in these hilly regions—powerful gusts and slippery roads—have led to the preventive closure of schools to ensure the safety of children and staff.

Contrast in North India: Uttar Pradesh Extends Summer Break Amid Scorching Heat

While South India grapples with flooding and heavy rains, North India is facing the exact opposite challenge—extreme heat. The Uttar Pradesh Basic Education Council has extended the closure of schools up to Class 8 across the state until June 30, citing the ongoing heatwave conditions.

This announcement pushes back the school reopening date from the previously scheduled June 15 to July 1. The measure is intended to protect younger students from exposure to the soaring temperatures that have plagued the region over the past several weeks.

The directive applies to all government and private schools governed by the Basic Education Council. It is seen as a necessary step to ensure student well-being amid the persistent and dangerous heat.

Safety First: A Coordinated Response to Climate Extremes

The simultaneous occurrence of natural extremes—floods in the south and heatwaves in the north—highlights the growing impact of climate variability on educational infrastructure and policy. Local governments across India are now increasingly adopting a proactive approach, issuing timely alerts and implementing closures as a preventive strategy to protect students, teachers, and school staff.

What Parents and Students Should Know

Parents in the affected districts are advised to follow official announcements from district collectors and local education departments. In many regions, local media and district websites provide regular updates on closures and safety measures. With the IMD continuing to monitor weather patterns closely, further alerts may be issued as conditions evolve.

For students, while these unexpected closures disrupt regular academic schedules, many schools are expected to switch to online assignments or self-study modules during the interim, especially in higher classes.

Summary of Closures (as of June 16, 2025):

• Kerala: Schools closed in Malappuram, Kannur, Kasaragod, Wayanad, Thrissur, and Kozhikode.
• Karnataka: Schools in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts are shut.
• Tamil Nadu: Select closures in Ooty, Kundah, Gudalur, and Pandalur taluks.