India, Dec. 1 -- Chennai woke up to heavy rain on Monday morning as Cyclone Ditwah weakened into a deep depression. Amid rain fury in the southern state and more downpour expected, all schools and colleges across Chennai and several neighbouring districts will remain closed on December 1.

The precautionary holiday covers government, private, and aided educational institutions, extending across Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, and other rain-hit districts, said a report by the Mint.

Authorities said the move aims to ensure public safety as Cyclone Ditwah, now weakened into a deep depression, continues to push bands of heavy rain onto the coast, triggering widespread waterlogging.

The weather office has placed several regions under hei...