India, July 29 -- At least 13 people have died after Japan's most destructive quake in decades, which struck on Tuesday, July 29, causing widespread destruction across Kumamoto Prefecture and triggering large-scale rescue operations. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed the fatalities on Wednesday. "Thirteen people have died," Takaichi said Wednesday.

The massive earthquake caused widespread destruction in Kumamoto Prefecture, prompting large-scale search and rescue efforts as well as mass evacuations and warnings about potential aftershock activity. Damage was reported to include buildings, roads, bridges and critical infrastructure.

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Meanwhile, an...