Collapsing billboard kills 3 and hurts 59 in heavy rains in Mumbai. Scores might be trapped

Dark clouds during a thunderstorm accompanied by strong winds and rain in Mumbai, India

A billboard collapse in Mumbai, India's financial hub, has tragically claimed three lives and left 59 others injured amid thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, as reported by the Press Trust of India on Monday.

Following the collapse in Ghatkopar suburb, Mumbai police announced on the social media platform X that numerous individuals were believed to be trapped under the debris.

Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra state's deputy chief minister, disclosed that 47 people had been rescued and were undergoing treatment at hospitals. An investigation into the incident has been launched, with ongoing rescue operations.

A motorist rides during a thunderstorm accompanied by srtorng winds and rain in Mumbai, India, May 13, 2024

India faces monsoon rains and severe floods from June to September, accounting for most of South Asia’s annual rainfall. While these rains are vital for rain-fed crops, they often result in substantial damage.

The country’s meteorological department has forecasted lightning, rain, and winds in parts of Mumbai in the upcoming hours, as reported by local media outlets.