Schools and Colleges Shut Across Coastal India as Cyclone Montha Approaches: Safety Measures in Place

Due to the approaching storm Cyclone Montha, schools and colleges have been closed in several coastal states of India to keep children safe from heavy rain, strong winds, and possible flooding. The storm is expected to hit the coast of the Bay of Bengal, between areas like Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam.

Authorities have issued red and orange alerts for parts of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu.

What has been declared:

• In Andhra Pradesh, schools and colleges are shut from October 27 to 31, 2025, in the most affected districts.

• In Odisha, schools, including anganwadis and junior colleges, are closed until October 29 or 30 in eight southern districts under the alert.

• In Tamil Nadu, especially in the districts around Chennai (like Chennai and Tiruvallur), a holiday was declared on October 28, 2025, as heavy rain and winds were ongoing.

• Also in the border districts of Telangana (Khammam, Bhadradri Kothagudem), a yellow alert is in place, and schools may be closed or monitored closely.

Why were the closures done?

Mainly for student safety: wind gusts up to around 110 km/h, flooding risk, storm surges, road blockages, and transport disruption. Also, schools and other buildings are being used for relief operations and shifting to online classes where feasible.

Advice for students and families:

• Stay at home and avoid going near rivers, the coast, or low-lying areas.

• Keep devices charged, download necessary study material ahead of time, since the internet or power may get disrupted.

• Keep watching official updates from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and local education authorities before planning to go back to school.