National severe weather forces Red Cross blood supply to further diminish

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – The aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby and other major storms around the country have left The American Red Cross suffering from a diminished blood supply.

Severe weather in the past few weeks has forced the cancellation of nearly 60 blood drives around the country.

According to The American Red Cross, annually, severe weather − such as blizzards, tornadoes, floods and hurricanes impacts about 90,000 blood donations made to the Red Cross. In Georgia, more than 450 blood drives have been canceled due to weather over the last 10 years, including 12 so far this year. This has resulted in about 400 donations going uncollected in the Georgia Region to date in 2024.

The Red Cross is reaching out to anyone in unaffected areas who can donate. They ask that those parties please schedule a donation appointment immediately.

First-time donors and those who give regularly are critical to blood supply recovery. To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). See RedCrossBlood.org/Help for details.