Why Have Schools and Colleges in Four TN Districts Declared a Holiday?

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Why Have Schools and Colleges in Four TN Districts Declared a Holiday?

Synopsis

As heavy rains continue to batter Chennai and surrounding areas, schools and colleges in four districts have been closed for safety. This decision comes amid warnings from the IMD regarding the impact of Cyclone Ditwah's remnants, disrupting daily life and prompting authorities to take precautionary measures.

Key Takeaways

  • Holiday declared for educational institutions in four Tamil Nadu districts.
  • Heavy rainfall caused by remnants of Cyclone Ditwah disrupts daily life.
  • IMD warns of continued rain and potential flooding.
  • Authorities advise residents to remain indoors.
  • Exams at Madras University and Anna University postponed.

Chennai, Dec 2 (NationPress) A holiday has been declared for all schools and colleges in four districts—Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu—on Tuesday due to persistent heavy rainfall caused by the remnants of Cyclone Ditwah, which has significantly disrupted daily life in the area.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning that the deep depression near the coast is expected to continue unleashing heavy rains.

As per the IMD, this deep depression has been nearly stationary approximately 50 km east of Chennai for several hours. The system is anticipated to drift southwest and weaken into a depression within the next 12 hours, coming within about 30 km of the city. Despite its weakening, its closeness is intensifying rain bands over northern Tamil Nadu.

Chennai has been facing relentless rainfall since the morning, leading to severe waterlogging on major roads and residential areas. Vehicles have been crawling through submerged sections, while several key roads are congested, making it difficult for commuters to navigate through flood-stricken areas.

The unceasing rain has brought daily activities to a standstill in many parts of Chennai.

In its latest update, the IMD noted, “The deep depression approximately 50 km east of Chennai is likely to weaken into a depression and move closer to around 30 km from the city in the next 12 hours. Consequently, light to moderate rain with thunderstorms is expected in one or two locations in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. Isolated areas in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, and Kancheepuram may witness heavy rainfall.”

The weather department has further indicated that rain activity will persist from Wednesday until December 5 in parts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal, accompanied by thunder and lightning in certain areas.

In response to the heavy rainfall alert, the District Collectors of the four affected districts have announced a temporary closure of educational institutions as a precaution. Both Madras University and Anna University have postponed the semester examinations scheduled for Tuesday, with new dates to be announced later.

Authorities are advising residents to limit unnecessary travel, remain indoors whenever feasible, and adhere to safety advisories as the depression persists close to the Tamil Nadu coast.

Point of View

The situation in Tamil Nadu underscores the importance of timely weather alerts and community preparedness. As heavy rains disrupt daily life, it's critical for authorities to prioritize public safety. This event serves as a reminder of the increasing frequency of extreme weather patterns, which necessitate proactive measures and robust infrastructure to mitigate risks.
NationPress
02/12/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the holiday declaration in Tamil Nadu?
The holiday was declared due to continuous heavy rainfall triggered by the remnants of Cyclone Ditwah, affecting daily life across the region.
Which districts are affected by the holiday?
The holiday affects four districts: Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu.
What impact has the heavy rain had on Chennai?
Heavy rain has led to severe waterlogging, traffic congestion, and disruptions in daily activities across Chennai.
How long is the rainfall expected to continue?
Rainfall is expected to persist from Wednesday until December 5, with potential thunderstorms.
What precautions have authorities advised to residents?
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, stay indoors, and follow safety advisories.
Nation Press