Schools Closed in Chennai Due to Heavy Rainfall from Cyclonic Storm
Chennai: As torrential rains continue to lash Chennai and its surrounding areas due to a cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal, authorities have declared a holiday for all schools in the city on Tuesday, November 12, 2024. The downpour, which began late on Monday night, has caused significant disruptions, with waterlogging reported in several parts of the city.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has forecasted that the heavy rains will persist for at least a week. The rains are a result of a low-pressure system forming over the southwest Bay of Bengal, which is expected to move westward towards the Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka coasts. The RMC has warned that the storm could intensify in the coming days, leading to even more rainfall.
In addition to Chennai, districts such as Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, and Pudukkottai, as well as the Union Territories of Puducherry and Karaikal, are also experiencing moderate to heavy rainfall. Authorities have reported widespread flooding in low-lying areas, with several roads becoming impassable due to accumulated water.
In light of these weather conditions, Chennai’s district collector, Rashmi Siddharth Zagade, announced that schools in the city would remain closed for the day to ensure the safety of students. While schools have been shut, colleges and universities have resumed their regular operations, though students are advised to be cautious when commuting.
Local authorities have urged residents to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and remain vigilant, particularly in flood-prone areas. They have also emphasized the importance of adhering to weather warnings and following safety guidelines during this period of adverse weather.
