Chennai and Tiruvallur shut schools and colleges as Cyclone Murasu approaches
Authorities in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have declared holidays for educational institutions due to expected heavy rainfall and high wind speeds.
Authorities in Chennai and Tiruvallur have closed schools and colleges on Monday, November 2, 2026, as a precaution against heavy rainfall from Cyclone Murasu, according to reports by The Hindu and The Hawk.
The cyclone intensified into a severe cyclonic storm over the west-central and southwest Bay of Bengal in the early hours on Monday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects the storm to make landfall between Nellore and Narsapur in Andhra Pradesh between 11.30 p.m. on Monday and 4 a.m. on Tuesday.
The IMD forecast wind speeds of 100–110 kmph during the crossing, with gusts reaching 120 kmph. In Eluru district, the administration declared a holiday for schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres to ensure the safety of students, according to the Deccan Chronicle.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) issued an orange alert for Chennai and Tiruvallur, indicating possible rainfall of 12 to 20 centimetres in 24 hours. A yellow alert was issued for Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Vellore, and the Nilgiris, where heavy rainfall of 7–11 centimetres is likely.
The State Revenue Administration and Disaster Management Department directed collectors to remain on high alert. The Additional Chief Secretary and Commissioner of Revenue Administration instructed collectors to mobilise personnel and maintain close surveillance, reporting any untoward incidents to the State Emergency Operations Centre.