As winter storms continue to wreak havoc across the country and wildfires burn in Southern California, the American Red Cross is calling on donors to give blood or platelets immediately.

The extreme weather has led to widespread blood drive cancellations, resulting in more than 12,000 uncollected blood and platelet donations in January alone.

“Severe weather is straining our ability to maintain a stable blood supply,” said Nicole Roschella, regional communications director American Red Cross Greater Pennsylvania Region “We need donors of all blood types, especially type O negative and platelet donors, to step forward now.”

The disruptions come at a critical time, with more storms forecasted this week in areas unaccustomed to heavy snowfall. These conditions not only impact blood collection but also make it more difficult to transport blood products to hospitals, putting patient care at risk.

The Red Cross is urging all eligible donors to schedule an appointment where it is safe to do so. Appointments can be made through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-733-2767.

As an incentive, donors who give through Feb. 28 will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. More information is available at RedCrossBlood.org/Flurry.

Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in generally good health. High school students and younger donors must also meet height and weight requirements.

Donors are required to present a blood donor card, driver’s license, or two other forms of ID at check-in. They can also save time by completing the RapidPass pre-donation questionnaire online at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass.

For those unable to donate blood, the Red Cross is also seeking volunteer blood donor ambassadors to help greet and assist donors at blood drives. Additionally, transportation specialists are needed to deliver blood products to hospitals. Interested individuals can apply at redcross.org/volunteertoday or call 1-800-422-7677.

The American Red Cross supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood, provides disaster relief, supports military families, and offers lifesaving training. As a nonprofit organization, it relies on volunteers and public donations to fulfill its mission.

For more information, visit RedCross.org or follow the Red Cross on social media.