Severe weather responsible for 35% blood shortage, says Red Cross

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — The American Red Cross is warning of a significant blood shortage across the country, driven by a combination of holiday travel, flu season and extreme winter weather.

According to the Red Cross, blood donations have dropped by about 35% over the past month and roughly 400 blood drives nationwide were impacted by severe December weather.

The upcoming storm is forecast to bring heavy snow, ice and possible power outages across the Commonwealth, creating additional challenges for blood collection efforts. The timing is especially concerning, as the organization is already struggling to meet hospital demand. Officials fear more cancellations are likely.

“You're talking about the potential for hundreds more blood drives to be canceled and that's before you talk about our own staff that's impacted by events like this,” said Jonathan McNamara, communications director for the Red Cross.

McNamara said extreme weather directly affects the blood supply at a critical time. 

“All of that leads to less blood available at a time when we're seeing high demand from our hospital partners, and that can mean those hospitals have to triage that blood. It can mean patients with conditions like sickle cell can’t get the blood that they need,” he said.

The shortage could result in delays to lifesaving care, particularly for platelets and other critical blood products.

Anthony Horkan, a frequent blood donor, said he didn’t fully understand the importance of donating when he was younger but now sees the constant need. 

“There’s always a need,” Horkan said. “ I understand people have a fear of fainting at blood and needles, but I think that it's still always an important thing to help people. And I think it's rewarding.”

The Red Cross is encouraging people to schedule donations once it is safe to travel. More information on how to donate can be found on the Red Cross website.