Chennai: Schools and colleges across Chennai and several neighbouring districts remained closed on Wednesday following continuous rainfall triggered by the remnants of Cyclone Ditwah. The holiday, announced by local authorities on Tuesday night, was enforced as a precautionary measure to ensure student safety amid weather-related disruptions.
IMD reports weakening of Cyclone Ditwah
The India Meteorological Department (IMD), in its early morning bulletin, said that the depression—formed from the remnants of Cyclone Ditwah—had weakened further as it moved inland. According to the IMD, the system over the southwest Bay of Bengal and the adjoining North Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coasts drifted slowly southwestwards and transformed into a well-marked low-pressure area over north Tamil Nadu–Puducherry regions at 5.30 am on December 3.
The department added that the system is expected to continue moving in the same direction and gradually weaken over the next 24 hours. Despite the weakening, the associated cloud bands continue to bring substantial moisture into the northern districts of Tamil Nadu, resulting in persistent rainfall.
Heavy rain in northern Tamil Nadu, moderate showers in Chennai
Several parts of northern Tamil Nadu recorded heavy rainfall early in the morning, particularly in coastal pockets where the system remained active. Chennai, on the other hand, witnessed moderate but steady showers through the night and into the morning, leading to traffic congestion, waterlogging in low-lying areas, and delays in public transport.
The Greater Chennai Corporation has deployed additional teams to address local flooding, clear drains and ensure smooth water flow in areas prone to inundation. Officials are monitoring vulnerable neighbourhoods to prevent disruptions or emergencies caused by excess rainfall.
Schools and colleges shut in four districts
In view of the weather conditions, district administrations in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram and Chengalpattu announced a holiday for all schools and colleges. Authorities said the decision was taken after reviewing rainfall data, road conditions and potential risks to students travelling during adverse weather.
Educational institutions have been advised to remain on standby for further notices, depending on how the weather develops over the next 24 hours. Parents and students have been urged to follow official updates from district authorities.
Safety advisory issued to residents
District officials have appealed to citizens to stay indoors unless necessary and avoid venturing out into flooded stretches or near water bodies. Motorists have been advised to drive cautiously due to slippery roads and reduced visibility.
Electricity departments and civic agencies are on alert to address complaints related to power outages, falling branches and water stagnation. Disaster response teams have also been instructed to remain prepared for emergency deployment.
Cyclone Ditwah’s trail over Tamil Nadu
Cyclone Ditwah formed over the Bay of Bengal earlier in the week before weakening steadily as it approached the Tamil Nadu coast. Though the system did not make a direct landfall as a severe cyclone, it carried enough moisture to cause widespread rainfall across several districts.
Meteorologists say the pattern of slow-moving low-pressure systems has been increasingly common in recent years, contributing to prolonged spells of rain even after cyclones weaken significantly.
The current weather situation is likely to improve once the low-pressure remnant moves further inland and dissipates. However, authorities remain vigilant until rainfall intensity reduces across the region.
Conclusion
With the weakened system still lingering near the coast, northern Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, is expected to receive intermittent rainfall for at least another day. Authorities have assured that preparedness measures are in place, and residents are advised to follow safety guidelines and official updates until conditions stabilise.