For how long can one stay in water mass before dying?

Question: For how long can one stay in water mass before dying?

Asked by pace20fen to Arnold, Edna, Elkana, Gliday, Jacinta, Michael, Mike, Mmboyi, Sally on 17 Jul 2025.
- Michael Kimwele answered on 17 Jul 2025:
  
  The time a person can survive in water varies greatly depending on several factors, but an average person can last between one and three minutes before losing consciousness and around ten minutes before death. Factors like energy consumption, prior breaths, physical condition, and age play a significant role. The “rule of threes” suggests three minutes without breathable air is a critical point, often leading to unconsciousness and potential drowning. Icy water can shorten this time drastically.

Question: For how long can one stay in water mass before dying?