By Trish Svoboda

The American Red Cross is facing an ongoing emergency blood shortage worsened by severe winter weather, which has hindered efforts to replenish the blood supply. Blood donors are encouraged to donate now to prevent delays in lifesaving medical procedures.

The national blood supply continues to stay at critically low levels, with blood drives canceled in nearly every state where the Red Cross operates. Consequently, this month alone, nearly 15,000 blood and platelet donations have remained uncollected. Severe weather conditions like snow, ice, and extreme temperatures have further complicated the transportation of vital blood products across the Red Cross network, leading to disruptions in deliveries to hospitals in certain areas.

The nation is presently facing the lowest blood donation rates in two decades. With fewer people donating blood, any interruption in blood donations, such as recent weather patterns, can significantly impact the availability of blood products. Blood donors play a crucial role in ensuring that those in need of transfusions have access to lifesaving medical care.

To make an appointment to give blood or platelets, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

As a thank-you, all those who come to give Feb. 1-29, 2024, will receive a $20 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Heart for details