Japan earthquake: Race to find survivors as critical 72-hour window closes

Image caption: The chances of survival drastically decrease after the first 72 hours, making them crucial for rescue operations.

Written by Kelly Ng and Jean Mackenzie in Singapore and Wajima

With just three days remaining, rescuers in Japan are working against the clock to find survivors of the New Year's earthquake.

On Monday at 16:10 local time (07:10 GMT), a 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck the isolated Noto peninsula, killing at least 77 people.

Many people, mostly from the towns of Suzu and Wajima, are believed to be trapped under their collapsing homes.

The likelihood of finding people alive significantly decreases after 72 hours.

Tens ofA rescue worker in Suzu, Japan is carrying an elderly woman on his back.IMAGE SOURCE: Getty Images

Image caption: The chances of survival drastically decrease after the first 72 hours, making them crucial for rescue operations.

Written by Kelly Ng and Jean Mackenzie in Singapore and Wajima

With just three days remaining, rescuers in Japan are working against the clock to find survivors of the New Year's earthquake.

On Monday at 16:10 local time (07:10 GMT), a 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck the isolated Noto peninsula, killing at least 77 people.

Many people, mostly from the towns of Suzu and Wajima, are believed to be trapped under their collapsing homes.

The likelihood of finding people alive significantly decreases after 72 hours.