Tamil Nadu authorities have announced the closure of schools and colleges in Chennai and several neighbouring districts as Cyclone Ditwah intensifies over the Bay of Bengal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rain and strong wind alert for coastal and northern districts, prompting precautionary measures to ensure public safety.
According to officials, Cyclone Ditwah, which formed as a deep depression earlier this week, has gradually strengthened and is expected to bring widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, and parts of Cuddalore and Villupuram. With forecasts indicating the possibility of very heavy rainfall in isolated pockets, district administrations have decided to suspend classes for schools and colleges to avoid inconvenience and ensure the safety of students.
Emergency teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), have been placed on standby in vulnerable regions. Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea as rough conditions and high waves are expected along the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts. Low-lying areas are being closely monitored, with pumps deployed to prevent waterlogging, especially in Chennai, which is prone to flooding during intense rainfall.
The state government has urged residents to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow official updates. Helplines have been activated, and local authorities are working to clear stormwater drains, trim weak trees, and prepare relief shelters in case of emergency evacuations.
As Cyclone Ditwah continues to move closer to the coast, authorities remain on high alert. Citizens have been requested to track weather updates from reliable sources and cooperate with safety advisories issued by the government.
