Possible Blood Shortage Due to Severe Weather

According to the Red Cross nearly 280 blood drives across 25 states were canceled due to snow and extreme cold.

The blood drive cancellations led to a shortfall of nearly 8,400 blood and and platelet donations over the past three days.

“It’s the blood products already on the shelves that help save lives when severe weather hits,” said Jim Flickema, CEO of the Red Cross Great Lakes Blood Services Region. “Thanks to generous Red Cross blood and platelet donors, blood products were available for patients who still needed transfusions despite the weather. Now we invite those previously ‘frozen out’ from giving blood or platelets to come in soon.”

Platelet donors, as well as blood donors with the most in-demand blood types are urgently needed to give blood in the near future to offset the lack of recent donations.

To donate Blood simply call the Red Cross and 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment.