For individuals trapped in rubble following an earthquake, survival hinges on numerous factors including weather conditions and access to water and air. When injuries are not severe, victims may survive for a week or more, provided the weather remains moderate, according to experts.
In western Colombia, where a destructive earthquake recently struck, rescue teams are racing against time to locate survivors. Successful rescues predominantly occur within the first 24 hours following a disaster. Experts note that survival odds decrease with each passing day. Many victims suffer severe injuries or become trapped under debris.
History provides examples of remarkable survival. Following Japan’s 2011 earthquake and tsunami, a teenager and his 80-year-old grandmother were rescued after nine days. Similarly, a 16-year-old Haitian girl survived for 15 days in earthquake debris in Port-au-Prince. The presence of water and air becomes vital as time progresses.
Survivors who find themselves in a debris-free pocket face a higher likelihood of survival, explained geophysicist Victor Tsai of Brown University. This pocket, regarded as a survivable void space, offers major protection to individuals awaiting rescue under sturdy structures like desks.
Fire, smoke, or chemicals released by collapsing buildings can decrease survival chances, warned Dr. Joseph Barbera, an emergency response expert at George Washington University. Having access to air and water remains crucial as time elapses. “You could survive a while without food,” Barbera stated. “You could survive less without water.” Temperatures within trapped environments significantly impact survival, as do external conditions which may hinder rescue operations.
In Colombia, numerous Latin American governments have pledged to assist with the ongoing crisis. Most earthquake-related deaths have been reported in cities such as Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Quibdo. Information on rural areas remains scant. Despite this, hope endures; for instance, a 32-year-old woman was rescued from a collapsed building in Pereira after 36 hours.
According to Barbera, providing essential medical care to survivors during extraction is critical. Failure to do so may result in shock due to toxin accumulation in crushed muscles.
Best Practices During an Earthquake
Survival strategies during an earthquake vary based on geographical location and regional building codes. In areas with seismic activity, construction standards are typically designed to withstand earthquakes, which is not universally applicable.
In countries like the United States, individuals are advised to drop, seek cover, and hold on unless near a building exit. Seek refuge under a heavy table or close to robust furniture which might create a survivable void if the structure collapses. Use a cloth or mask to shield your face from dust and debris.
If caught in the rubble, conserve your energy, avoid overexertion, ration food and water, and remain alert for rescue signals. Create noise with nearby objects to attract attention. Should you possess a phone, use it sparingly, attempting short contacts each day.
The Associated Press Health and Science Department’s reporting benefits from support provided by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. AP retains sole responsibility for the content.