Recent severe weather prompts Red Cross emergency blood crisis

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) – Red Cross officials say severe weather this summer has strained their blood supply and they are currently facing an emergency blood shortage.

In Ohio, 26 blood drives have been canceled so far because of the weather.

According to the Red Cross, this resulted in nearly 500 donations going uncollected in the region.

“Because blood has a short shelf life and can only come from voluntary blood donors, any interruption in the ability to collect life-saving blood can have serious consequences for hospitals and patients,” the Red Cross said in a statement presser.

To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Everyone who donates by August 31st will receive a $20 Amazon.com gift card via email.

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