After an earthquake, how long can trapped people survive?

In the aftermath of an earthquake, the length of time trapped individuals can survive hinges on numerous elements, such as the surrounding weather conditions and availability of vital resources like water and breathable air. Assuming their injuries are not too severe, victims may endure for up to a week, provided the weather remains neither excessively hot nor too cold, according to experts.

In the wake of a devastating earthquake that struck western Colombia, rescue teams are in a frantic effort to locate survivors. Typically, most rescue operations are conducted within the first 24 hours following such a catastrophic event. However, the likelihood of survival diminishes significantly with each passing day thereafter, as specialists emphasize.

The aftermath of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan serves as a stark reminder of the potential for miraculous survivals. In this tragedy, a teenager and his 80-year-old grandmother were miraculously found alive after being trapped in their collapsed residence for an astounding nine days. Similarly, a year prior, a 16-year-old girl from Haiti was rescued from the debris in Port-au-Prince after enduring 15 days in the rubble.

Crucial factors such as water supply and breathable air play a pivotal role in determining the chances of survival for these trapped victims. Geophysicist Victor notes that trapped individuals are more likely to endure if they find themselves in an area free of debris that helps prevent major injuries while awaiting rescue, akin to being sheltered under a solid piece of furniture.