The American Red Cross is urging eligible donors to give blood immediately after declaring only the second national blood supply crisis in its history.
Blood donations have fallen to their lowest summer levels in four years, forcing the Red Cross to limit shipments of type O blood to some hospitals. Officials say the supply of O-positive blood has dropped below a one-day supply, raising concerns that surgeries, trauma care and other lifesaving treatments could be affected if donations don't increase.
The organization says all blood types are needed, with the greatest need for type O donors. Summer vacations, extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread illnesses have all contributed to fewer donations this year.
The Red Cross is encouraging anyone who is eligible to schedule an appointment as soon as possible to help stabilize the nation's blood supply and ensure hospitals have enough blood for patients in need.
Those wishing to donate can make an appointment and find info at www.redcrossblood.org. Those who give Aug. 1-31, 2026, will receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card by email. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/August.
