Background <p>Children with disabilities and their caregivers face unique challenges during disasters; however, their experiences remain underexplored in the Indian context. This qualitative study explored the experiences of 14 caregivers of children with disabilities during the 2023 Chennai floods using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis.</p> Methods <p>This exploratory qualitative study was conducted in flood-affected areas of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, following the December 2023 flash floods. Fourteen caregivers of children with disabilities were recruited through a snowball sampling approach. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted in Tamil and transcribed, translated, and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-step inductive thematic analysis framework.</p> Results <p>Flash floods caused disruptions in the developmental progress of children, resulting in therapeutic setbacks and behavioural challenges. Inadequate infrastructure posed increased physical risks due to environmental and structural exposure. Caregiver stress, overload, role strain, and emotional fatigue were prevalent. Many caregivers faced difficulties in accessing assistance or respite. Caregivers employed informal coping strategies such as storytelling, establishing routines, and prayers to comfort the children. Furthermore, families engaged in experience-informed preparedness by implementing risk-averse preemptive safety measures based on their previous flood experiences.</p> Conclusion <p>Flash floods significantly disrupt the care and development of children with disabilities. Despite encountering significant challenges, families exhibit notable resilience by adopting a range of coping strategies. Strengthening disability-inclusive disaster preparedness and caregiver support mechanisms is crucial for an equitable public health response and building resilience.</p>