Heavy Rains Lash Nilgiris: Power Cuts, School Closures, and Tourist Spots Shut Down

The Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu witnessed a wave of disruptions on Monday, June 16, 2025, as heavy rainfall led to power outages, school closures, and the shutdown of popular tourist destinations. With rains continuing from Sunday night through Monday, the district administration swung into action to manage the fallout.

Monsoon Fury Hits Key Taluks

According to official data, the Nilgiris received an average of 47.28 mm of rainfall between Sunday and Monday morning. However, specific regions were hit far harder. The Kundha, Pandalur, and Gudalur taluks bore the brunt of the weather, with Kundha’s Upper Bhavani recording an intense 292 mm of rainfall, while Avalanche received 168 mm.

In Pandalur, rainfall exceeded 130 mm, while nearby areas like Gudalur, Devala, and O’Valley also saw relentless downpours. Even though Udhagamandalam taluk saw relatively milder rainfall, Parsons Valley and Porthimund recorded 132 mm and 94 mm, respectively.

Widespread Power Outages and Roadblocks

The rains and accompanying winds caused widespread power disruptions, particularly in Gudalur, Pandalur, and parts of Udhagamandalam taluks. Teams from the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) were deployed to restore power, using heavy machinery to remove fallen trees and repair damaged power poles.

Minor landslips and damaged roads were also reported throughout the district, adding to transportation woes and raising safety concerns for both residents and tourists.

TNSDRF on Alert

Anticipating heavy rainfall over the weekend, the district administration had already stationed Tamil Nadu State Disaster Response Force (TNSDRF) teams in the most vulnerable taluks — Pandalur, Kundha, and Gudalur — to respond quickly to emergencies.

Tourist Attractions Closed Amid Weather and Maintenance Concerns

In a blow to tourists visiting the Nilgiris, the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) announced the closure of major attractions. Boating at Ooty Lake and the Boat House was suspended, while the Forest Department temporarily shut down access to:

• Doddabetta Peak

• Avalanche

• Eighth Mile and Ninth Mile Shooting Spot

• Pine Forest

• Cairn Hill

Officials cited both inclement weather and scheduled maintenance as reasons for the closures.

Schools Declared Closed

With safety in mind, District Collector Lakshmi Bhavya Tanneeru declared a holiday for schools in the affected taluks — Udhagamandalam, Kundha, Gudalur, and Pandalur.

Conclusion

As the Nilgiris continues to reel under the impact of heavy monsoon rains, authorities are urging residents and tourists to remain vigilant. Restoration work is ongoing, and with more rain expected, people are advised to stay indoors and avoid travel to hill stations until conditions improve.