Summary
The American Red Cross has said that severe winter storms have greatly reduced blood donations across the U.S. Nearly 15,000 donations were missed due to storm-related cancellations, leading to a critical shortage of blood supplies. The Red Cross is urging eligible donors to give blood as soon as conditions improve.
Key Facts
- Severe winter weather caused around 500 blood drive cancellations between January 23 and January 28.
- More than 15,000 blood and platelet donations were not collected during this period.
- The blood shortage is affecting critical medical procedures due to the low supply.
- Platelet donations and blood types O, A negative, and B negative are in short supply.
- The Red Cross has experienced a 35% decrease in blood donations over the last month.
- The Red Cross volunteers are working hard to ensure that blood deliveries continue despite the weather.
- Freezing temperatures and further severe weather are predicted, which might cause more disruptions.
- People can schedule a blood donation appointment through the Blood Donor app, the Red Cross website, or by phone.
