Articles from multiple outlets explain that how long trapped earthquake victims can survive varies widely and depends on several immediate factors. They note that survival is influenced by the severity and type of injuries, including whether victims can breathe and whether their airway remains clear. Weather and environmental conditions also play a major role, including temperature and exposure to cold or heat. Access to water is highlighted as another key determinant, since dehydration can become life-threatening even when breathing is possible. The ability to access air and maintain a survivable breathing environment—such as through the creation of an air pocket—is repeatedly cited as critical. One outlet references expert discussion and historical cases in which people have endured for days under rubble, underscoring that rescue timelines can be unpredictable. Overall, the sources emphasize that trapped victims’ chances decline over time, but the exact time window is not fixed and depends on situational circumstances, including the location and extent of the blockage and the conditions around the victim.