The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for several coastal districts of Tamil Nadu on Monday, December 1, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall as a low-pressure system over the southwest Bay of Bengal intensifies following Cyclonic Storm Ditwah.
The IMD forecast stated that heavy rainfall is likely over Tamil Nadu, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Rayalaseema, and Telangana on Monday.
Schools Closed
In anticipation of severe rainfall and waterlogging, the Tamil Nadu government has declared a holiday for all educational institutions in affected areas, including Chennai, Chengalpattu, and Tiruvallur. The closure applies to government, private, and aided schools.
Similarly, Puducherry schools across the union territory will remain closed, as announced by Education Minister A Namassivayam.
Districts on High Alert
An orange alert has been issued for the districts of:
- Tiruvallur
- Chennai
- Kancheepuram
- Chengalpattu
- Mayiladuthurai
- Nagapattinam
- Tiruvarur
- Karaikal
A yellow alert has been issued for Villuppuram, Cuddalore, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and Kanyakumari, indicating isolated heavy rainfall.
Fisherman Warning
The IMD also issued a fisherman warning for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts, as well as the Comorin area, noting squally winds of 55-65 kmph, gusting to 75 kmph, expected to gradually ease to 45-55 kmph, gusting to 65 kmph by Monday morning.
Residents are advised to exercise caution as sea conditions remain rough until the morning, gradually improving afterward.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have urged the public to follow safety guidelines.