Andhra Pradesh, Odisha Schools To Remain Closed On October 29 Due to Cyclone Montha

Cyclone Montha approaches the east coast, prompting school closures and high alert across Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Odisha. (PTI Photo)

With most of the festivals over now, schools in many states will reopen tomorrow. However, some states will keep schools closed due to alerts on Cyclone Montha. A deep depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal has intensified into Cyclone Montha, the first cyclone of the year expected to hit the Indian mainland. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that the storm is strengthening rapidly and could develop into a severe cyclonic storm by Tuesday before making landfall near Kakinada on the Andhra Pradesh coast.

Certain states in southern India have declared holidays in select districts where the cyclone alerts have been issued. Here’s a state-wise list of school holidays for Wednesday, October 29.

On account of this, schools in numerous districts of Andhra Pradesh will remain closed from October 27 to 29 due to heavy rain warnings from Cyclone Montha. Holidays have been announced in East Godavari, Annamayya, Kadapa, NTR, Bapatla, Krishna, and Guntur districts. There are also reports of school holidays being announced in more districts. Red alerts have been issued, and holidays extended in Bapatla, YSR Kadapa, Prakasam, Nellore, Tirupati, and Annamayya.

All schools, anganwadi centres, and colleges in Odisha’s Gajapati district will remain closed until October 30 due to Cyclone Montha. Eight southern districts have been designated as Red Zones. Authorities have advised all 30 districts to stay alert in case the cyclone changes its path.

In Tamil Nadu, local authorities declared temporary holidays for schools and some colleges, especially in low-lying and coastal areas on October 28. An announcement regarding school closure for October 29 is expected soon.

On the other hand, Chhath Puja is a major festival in Bihar, hence schools in the state will remain closed till October 29 and reopen on October 30. The festival is also celebrated in Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh where also schools will likely remain closed. An official confirmation is expected to be announced by the government soon.