A massive billboard fell onto a petrol station and killed at least 14 people during a freak storm

Footage shared on social media showed the billboard’s metal supports giving way as it tipped over on one side, flattening cars and buildings in seconds.

A video of the aftermath published by The Associated Press showed the petrol station’s collapsed roof, where crews worked to clear debris.

Local media reported that the billboard was larger than legally permitted and may have been erected without permission. The BBC, citing city authorities, reported the same.

Municipal authorities said on X they have since demolished three billboards set up illegally near the collapsed advertisement.

“An inquiry is already being ordered into the incident. Strict action will be taken against the culprits,” said Devendra Fadnavis, deputy chief minister of Mumbai’s state, Maharashtra.

He said the government has organized around $6,000 in financial assistance for affected families. Typical annual wages in the city range from $5,200 to $7,200, per salary aggregation firms.

Mumbai has been battered by heavy rains and strong winds in the past week, and India’s Meteorological Department expects thunderstorms and squalls to continue in Maharashtra for several days.

Dust storms have also emerged intermittently amid the rains, blanketing the city of 18 million in gray and orange hues.

The coastal urban hub hasn’t even hit its monsoon season yet, which typically runs from June to September. Mumbai is often subject to floods during this period, with local media estimating that about 35% of the city sees chronic flooding.