Red Cross Faces Blood Shortage as Wildfires and Winter Weather Disrupt Donations

The American Red Cross reports a significant blood and platelet shortage after more than 10,000 donations went uncollected in the first two weeks of the year due to wildfires and severe winter weather.

Typically, wildfires have a limited impact on the organization’s blood collection efforts since they occur in rural areas. However, as wildfires have increasingly affected air quality in urban and densely populated regions, blood drive cancellations have surged, creating an urgent need for donations.

Severe winter weather has further compounded the issue, disrupting scheduled drives and limiting donor turnout across the country. Despite these challenges, thousands of individuals have stepped up to donate blood, time, and money, helping sustain the Red Cross's life-saving efforts in places like Los Angeles and beyond.

The Red Cross is now urgently appealing to donors of all blood types, with a particular emphasis on type O negative blood and platelet donors. Type O negative blood is critical in emergencies because it can be used for patients of any blood type, while platelets are essential for cancer patients and those with blood disorders.

To support their mission, the Red Cross encourages eligible donors to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Donations can make a life-saving difference during this time of critical need. Visit RedCross.org to find a nearby donation center.