Archive · 30 Jul 2026
US Blood Crisis: Red Cross Urges Donors Amid Heat and Illness
The American Red Cross said the country is in a blood shortage that could hurt people who need blood for surgeries or emergencies.
Blood donations dropped a lot because it was very hot, smoke from fires made it hard to go outside, and some people got sick from a food bug.
Hospitals are running low on the most common blood type, O, and may have to wait for surgeries.
The Red Cross is asking anyone who can to donate, and they are giving free movie tickets or gift cards to help.
This is the second time the Red Cross has said the country is in a blood crisis in its long history.
American Red Cross declared a national blood supply crisis, the second in its history.
Blood donations fell to a four‑year summer low, dropping overall supplies by about 25% in June.
Heatwaves, wildfire smoke, and a cyclosporiasis outbreak have discouraged donors, especially for Type O blood.
Hospitals face shortages, with less than a one‑day supply of O‑positive blood, leading to rationing and delayed non‑emergency surgeries.
The Red Cross is urging eligible donors to give, offering incentives like free movie tickets and Amazon gift cards.
- Who
- American Red Cross
- What
- Declared a national blood supply crisis
- When
- June 2024
- Where
- United States
- Why
- Blood donations fell to a four‑year low due to heat, wildfire smoke, and a cyclosporiasis outbreak
- Organization
- American Red Cross
- Crisis declared
- Yes
- Blood donation drop
- 25% in June
- Lowest summer level
- Four‑year low
- Type O blood supply
- Less than one day
