Cyclone Ditwah: Tamil Nadu Hit — Flights Cancelled, Schools Shut, India Sends Aid to Sri Lanka

Heavy rains, disruptions and disaster relief unfold across Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka

As Cyclone Ditwah moves northwards from Sri Lanka toward Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, authorities in Tamil Nadu have cancelled flights, shut schools and colleges, and issued severe-rainfall warnings across many districts. Meanwhile, India has sent humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka under Operation Sagar Bandhu as flood and cyclone damage intensifies.

Disruptions Across Tamil Nadu

• The Chennai Airport cancelled 54 scheduled flights in view of forecast heavy rainfall and strong winds tied to Cyclone Ditwah.
• Schools and colleges were declared closed in multiple districts, including Perambalur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Cuddalore, Kallakurichi, Pudukottai, Puducherry and Karaikal.
• In districts such as Villupuram, Thanjavur and Tiruchi, schools were shut while colleges remained open (unless further instructions arrive).
• The Regional Meteorological Centre issued warnings of very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, strong winds and rough seas — raising concern over urban flooding, waterlogging and coastal dangers.
• Coastal and delta-region districts are expected to receive intense rain and gusty winds, while inland districts may also witness heavy rainfall.

State authorities have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from waterlogged or coastal zones, and follow official advisories. Fishermen have been urged not to venture into the sea.

India Sends Humanitarian Aid to Sri Lanka

Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, India has flown relief material to Sri Lanka to help communities reeling from floods and cyclone impact. A C-130J aircraft landed in Colombo carrying roughly 12 tonnes of aid, including tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits and ready-to-eat food items.

An 80-member contingent from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with specialized search dogs, has also been deployed to assist in rescue operations.

Indian officials and Sri Lankan authorities both expressed gratitude after the consignment reached Colombo. The aid comes at a critical time as Sri Lanka grapples with widespread floods, landslides, and displacement of thousands. 

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What to Watch — Forecast & Safety Alerts

• Meteorological forecast warns of continued heavy rainfall, gusty winds, high tides and rough seas — especially along coastal areas.
• Coastal communities, fishermen and travelers are advised to stay off the sea and avoid unnecessary movement until conditions improve.
• Students in affected districts should await official updates for further notices on school/college closures or resumption.

Related News : Sri Lanka Floods & Landslides Kill 56; Offices and Schools Closed Nationwide