Schools across several districts in Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, are closed today, November 17, after continuous overnight rainfall led to waterlogging in many low-lying areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for parts of North Tamil Nadu, warning of heavy to very heavy rain as a low-pressure system lingers over the Bay of Bengal.
District collectors confirmed that all government, private, and aided schools in Chennai and nearby districts will remain shut as a precaution. Parents have also been advised to avoid unnecessary travel due to waterlogged roads in several parts of the city.
Why Are Schools Closed Today?
The IMD says a low-pressure area near the Sri Lanka coast is expected to move slowly toward Tamil Nadu, keeping rainfall intense across coastal regions. Chennai woke up to flooded stretches and traffic disruptions in areas like Velachery, Tambaram, and parts of North Chennai.
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Officials said emergency response teams and pumps are deployed to clear major junctions, but more rain through the day could worsen the situation.
Districts Where Schools Are Closed (November 17)
| District/Region | Status | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Chennai | Closed | Heavy rain & waterlogging |
| Chengalpattu | Closed | Rainfall, safety concerns |
| Tiruvallur | Closed | Waterlogging alerts |
| Kancheepuram | Likely closure (local orders) | Continuous rainfall |
| Southern TN districts | Open/Local decisions | Mild weather |
Local announcements may still be issued, so parents are advised to check updates from district administrations.
IMD Alerts: Orange & Yellow Warnings
Orange Alert (Heavy to Very Heavy Rain):
Tiruvallur, Chennai, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Karaikal.
Yellow Alert (Heavy Rain Likely):
Villuppuram, Cuddalore, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari.
Chennai’s day forecast:
☁ Cloudy skies
🌧 Heavy to very heavy rain possible
🌡 Temperature: 29°C to 30°C
Govt Issues Precautionary Orders
Tamil Nadu’s revenue department has directed district administrations to stay prepared for flooding, especially near river basins and coastal belts.
Authorities said the state emergency operations center is monitoring the situation round the clock, and rescue teams remain on standby in vulnerable zones.
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Advisory for Fishermen
Fishermen are warned not to venture into Gulf of Mannar and Kanniyakumari seas due to strong winds at 35–45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph.
Travel & Safety Tips for Residents
Residents are advised to:
Avoid waterlogged roads
Follow updates from Chennai Corporation & district authorities
Keep emergency numbers handy
Charge essential devices in case of power cuts
