A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck southwestern Japan on July 28, killing at least 13 people and leaving many others missing, according to the country's prime minister. The quake hit the Kumamoto area on the southern main island of Kyushu, triggering a search for survivors in damaged buildings. Japan's Prime Minister confirmed the death toll, including five victims who died at a factory. Soldiers and emergency workers are combing through a badly damaged shopping mall and collapsed houses in a 'race against time' to find trapped survivors, CBC reported. The rescue operation is ongoing as authorities work to locate those still unaccounted for. The earthquake also caused numerous injuries, though the exact number has not been disclosed. Japan, one of the world's most seismically active nations, sits atop four major tectonic plates along the Pacific 'Ring of Fire,' making it prone to powerful quakes. The government has mobilized rescue teams and is coordinating relief efforts with local officials. Aftershocks continue to rattle the region, hampering rescue operations but not halting them. The prime minister urged residents to remain vigilant and follow safety instructions. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed as recovery teams reach remote areas.