NEW DELHI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across several parts of the country as monsoon activity remains active in multiple regions.

The weather warning covers around 23 states, with heavy to very heavy rainfall forecast at isolated locations in some areas.

Parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, West Bengal, Odisha, Delhi, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat and Maharashtra are among the regions facing heightened weather activity.

Strong winds accompanying thunderstorms are also likely in several areas, with wind speeds potentially reaching around 80-85 kmph in some locations.

The IMD has advised residents in affected areas to remain cautious during thunderstorms and avoid unnecessary exposure to open areas during lightning activity.

Heavy rainfall could also affect road and rail movement, aviation operations and normal day-to-day activities in vulnerable areas.

The weather system comes as the southwest monsoon continues to influence large parts of the country, with several regions experiencing renewed rainfall after periods of relatively subdued activity.

Authorities have been advised to remain alert in areas vulnerable to waterlogging, flash flooding and other rain-related disruptions.