Myanmar holds minute of silence for more than 2,700 quake dead

Myanmar observed a one-minute silence on Tuesday to honor the victims of the devastating earthquake that has claimed over 2,700 lives.

At precisely 12:51:02 local time, the moment the magnitude-7.9 quake struck near Mandalay, sirens rang out across the nation in remembrance of those lost.

Myanmar announced on Monday a week-long mourning period following the deadly quake. As of Tuesday, the disaster has killed 2,719 people, Myanmar's State Administration Council Chairman Senior General Min Aung Hlaing said in a televised speech, with the figure expected to exceed 3,000.

Min Aung Hlaing also said there were 4,521 people injured and 441 are still missing.

(With input from Xinhua)