The weakened remnants of Cyclone Ditwah continued to batter Tamil Nadu on Monday, unleashing heavy rainfall and widespread waterlogging across several districts. Though the system has downgraded into a deep depression, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned that its trailing bands could still bring intense showers to many parts of the state.
Chennai and nearby northern coastal districts—Thiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Cuddalore and Chengalpattu—experienced relentless downpours, leading to flooding in low-lying neighbourhoods, traffic snarls and flight disruptions. Several areas in the delta region also reported submerged farmlands, putting standing crops at risk and adding to the distress of farmers.
In interior districts such as Vellore, Tirupathur, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram and Puducherry, moderate to heavy rain is expected to continue for the next 24 hours. Schools and colleges in multiple regions have announced holidays as a precaution.
The severe weather has already claimed three lives in rain-related incidents, prompting the state government to place disaster-response units on high alert. Rescue teams have been deployed, and officials have urged residents to stay indoors, avoid flooded routes and remain vigilant until conditions improve.
Despite weakening, Cyclone Ditwah’s remnants serve as a sharp reminder of the vulnerability of coastal Tamil Nadu to extreme weather events during the northeast monsoon.
