The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a nationwide weather alert warning of torrential rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds across several states on Monday as the southwest monsoon remains active over large parts of the country. According to the latest IMD bulletin, the next 14 hours are expected to be particularly critical, with heavy rain and severe weather likely to affect several regions. IMD warns of heavy rain and strong winds The weather department said wind speeds could reach up to 80 kmph in some areas, increasing the risk of uprooted trees, power outages, traffic disruptions and waterlogging in low-lying areas. The IMD has advised farmers, travellers and people living near rivers and coastal regions to remain vigilant. Residents in hilly states have also been warned about the possibility of landslides and sudden rises in river water levels due to persistent rainfall. Heavy rainfall likely across north India The IMD has forecast fairly widespread to widespread rainfall across Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh and Uttarakhand throughout the week. Rainfall activity is also expected …