The death toll from the powerful earthquake in southern Japan has risen to at least 13, with the government reporting that numerous people remain trapped beneath rubble.

To intensify rescue operations, approximately 3,600 military personnel have been deployed, while over 36,000 households still remain without electricity.

According to international news outlet CNN, at least 13 people were killed in a 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed the information on Wednesday morning (July 29) local time.

The Prime Minister stated that authorities are still investigating whether several of the deaths are directly linked to the earthquake and subsequent aftershocks.

Expressing deep condolences to the families of the victims, she said that many people are still awaiting rescue workers and that every second counts.

She added that rescue operations are ongoing and resemble a race against time.

To accelerate rescue and relief efforts following the earthquake, about 3,600 members of Japan's Self-Defense Forces have been deployed.

Operating in coordination with local police and fire services, military personnel are conducting rescue operations, assessing damage, and delivering emergency assistance.

Meanwhile, according to NHK, the government is preparing to hold an emergency meeting to determine the urgent needs of the affected areas.

BBC reports indicate that 9,872 people have been evacuated to safe locations following the earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture.

Additionally, approximately 36,700 households remain without power.

Rescue operations are underway at a shopping mall in Kumamoto, where fears persist that numerous people are trapped.

According to eyewitness accounts, the second floor of the building collapsed. Furthermore, several individuals are reported missing following the collapse of a factory chimney.

Japan is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world. Situated along the Pacific "Ring of Fire," the country experiences hundreds of earthquakes every year, accounting for about 18 percent of the world's total earthquakes.

Previously, the devastating 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami in 2011 left approximately 18,500 people dead or missing and severely damaged the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.