More than 60 people are confirmed dead in Monday's devastating earthquake in Ishikawa Prefecture, central Japan. Tens of thousands are still without electricity.

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio says emergency teams are in a race against time to save lives.

Rescue operations are ongoing throughout Ishikawa, where officials say at least 65 people are confirmed dead.

A man said, "I lost my two daughters when the first story of my house collapsed. A roof beam came crashing down on the table where my family was celebrating the New Year."

He added, "My two daughters were crushed under the table. I couldn't stop crying. Who would've imagined this could happen."

Many more are feared trapped under collapsed houses and exposed to the winter cold. Rain is forecast for Wednesday night.

Kishida said, "More than 40 hours have passed since the earthquake occurred. It's a race against time to save lives and rescue survivors. This is a crucial moment."

He added that the government will do all it can, placing top priority on saving lives.

Kishida said, "We have boosted the number of Self-Defense Forces personnel from 1,000 to 2,000. Not just that. More than 2,000 firefighters and more than 700 police officers are also gathering from across the country."

Kishida also said that affected municipalities are requesting more rescue dogs, a quick reopening of severed roads, and supplies of water, blankets and other necessities.