In anticipation of heavy rainfall and strong winds brought by Cyclone Ditwah, authorities in Chennai and several other districts of Tamil Nadu have announced the closure of schools and colleges for today. The precautionary measure comes as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an alert, indicating that Cyclone Ditwah is expected to make landfall or pass close to the Tamil Nadu coast, bringing with it significant weather disturbances.
The decision to shut down educational institutions was made late last night by district collectors, following advisories from the meteorological department. This aims to ensure the safety of students and staff, preventing them from commuting during potentially hazardous weather conditions. Parents and guardians have been advised to keep children indoors and take necessary precautions.
"Considering the IMD's forecast of heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong winds due to Cyclone Ditwah, all schools and colleges in Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, and Villupuram districts will remain closed today," stated a release from the respective district administrations. Other coastal districts are also on high alert, with similar decisions expected if the situation warrants.
#WATCH | Tamil Nadu | Chennai receives heavy rains, in the aftermath of cyclone Ditwah, causing waterlogging in many parts of the city. pic.twitter.com/NhlmTYIhJk
— ANI (@ANI) December 1, 2025
The IMD's latest bulletin indicates that Cyclone Ditwah has intensified and is currently positioned over the Bay of Bengal, moving in a west-northwest direction. It is projected to bring widespread rainfall, with isolated extremely heavy falls, particularly in the northern coastal districts of Tamil Nadu. Wind speeds are expected to reach up to 70-80 kmph, gusting to 90 kmph, prompting warnings for fishermen to not venture into the sea.
Disaster response teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), have been deployed to vulnerable areas. Control rooms have been activated across the state to monitor the situation round the clock and provide assistance. Residents in low-lying areas have been urged to move to designated relief camps if advised by local authorities.
The Greater Chennai Corporation has also taken steps to mitigate the impact, including preparing storm water drains, clearing fallen trees, and ensuring the availability of essential services. Residents are advised to stay updated with official announcements, avoid unnecessary travel, and take all necessary safety precautions. The situation is being closely monitored, and further advisories will be issued as Cyclone Ditwah progresses.
