Chennai Braces for Cyclone Michaung: Schools and Colleges Shut Amidst Torrential Rains

Chennai and several other districts in Tamil Nadu are on high alert as Cyclone Michaung intensifies, prompting authorities to declare a holiday for all schools and colleges today. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong winds across the region as the cyclonic storm approaches.

Students across Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, and Pudukottai will remain home as a precautionary measure.

This decision comes as Cyclone Michaung, currently brewing over the Bay of Bengal, is expected to make landfall between South Andhra Pradesh and adjoining North Tamil Nadu coasts around December 4. The storm is predicted to bring significant disruption, with wind speeds reaching up to 80-90 kmph, gusting to 100 kmph, during and after its landfall.

Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors and take all necessary precautions.

The state disaster management teams are on standby, preparing for potential emergencies, including flooding and infrastructure damage. The public is advised to monitor official weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel during this period of extreme weather.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure children's safety and avoid venturing into areas prone to waterlogging or high winds.

The educational institutions will reopen only after the weather conditions improve and it is deemed safe for students and staff to return.