Cyclone Ditwah: Schools and colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu closed on 2 December 2025

Chennai, Tiruvallur, and Chengalpattu districts in Tamil Nadu will observe a holiday for schools and colleges on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, as authorities brace for heavy rainfall and the approach of Cyclone Ditwah. The decision was announced by the district collectors on Monday, citing updates from the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) and ongoing adverse weather conditions.

Chennai and neighbouring areas have been experiencing continuous rain since Monday morning, leading to waterlogging in low-lying areas and slippery roads. Officials have urged residents to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor local weather updates closely.

Cyclone Ditwah Tracks Close to Tamil Nadu Coastline

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that Cyclone Ditwah, currently over the southwest Bay of Bengal, is weakening and is expected to downgrade to a deep depression as it nears the Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coastline. By midnight on Sunday, 30 November 2025, the cyclone was forecast to come within 30 km of the North Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coast.

According to the RMC bulletin, as of Sunday evening, the system was located approximately 90 km southeast of Cuddalore, 120 km northeast of Karaikal, 90 km southeast of Puducherry, 170 km northeast of Vedaranniyam, and 150 km southeast of Chennai.

Heavy Rainfall Expected Across Multiple Districts

Weather monitoring agencies and private meteorologists predict persistent rainfall in Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, and Ranipet districts as Cyclone Ditwah moves closer to the coast. The system is moving slowly at 5 kmph, following a near-northward trajectory parallel to the coastline, bringing continuous showers to the region.

Authorities emphasised that the closure of schools and colleges is a precautionary measure to ensure public safety amid the forecasted rainfall and potential flooding. Further updates will depend on advisories issued by the Meteorological Department as the cyclone progresses along the Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coastline.

MET Office Advisories

The MET office reiterated that while Cyclone Ditwah is expected to weaken, it will remain close to the coast, with its centre likely within 30 km of the North Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coastline by midnight on 30 November 2025. Officials have urged residents to stay indoors where possible, follow official advisories, and remain alert to updates on rainfall, waterlogging, and local flooding conditions.