Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Feb. 10, 2025) — Powerful winter storms this year have forced the cancellation of nearly 700 American Red Cross blood drives nationwide, resulting in over 17,000 uncollected blood donations. This unprecedented shortfall has already surpassed last winter’s total lost blood donations, creating a critical strain on the nation’s blood supply. The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is urging residents to step up and donate blood in the coming days to ensure patients across the country have access to lifesaving care.
“The severe winter storms have already disrupted blood drives across the country, placing a significant strain on the blood supply,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “With more storms on the way, we urgently need Nevadans — especially those with type O blood — to donate now. Every contribution is vital to ensuring the Red Cross can provide lifesaving blood to those in critical need during these ongoing weather challenges.”
Forecasters Predict More Dangerous Weather Ahead
Just days after a major storm blanketed the Midwest and East Coast, forecasters are tracking multiple weather systems that could impact millions across the southern Plains to the Northeast. Starting Monday night and continuing through the weekend, three storms are expected to affect nearly 200 million people across 40 states, compounding challenges for blood collection efforts.
Challenges Facing the Blood Supply
Winter is already one of the toughest seasons for blood donations. Severe weather causes widespread cancellations of blood drives, making it harder to maintain adequate supplies. An active cold and flu season further reduces donor turnout as people recover from illness. These combined factors leave the blood supply at risk during an already difficult period.
Donors are encouraged to act now by scheduling a donation appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). If no immediate appointments are available, donors are urged to schedule for the near future to help maintain a stable blood supply. To show appreciation for donors, the Red Cross is offering a $15 e-gift card to everyone who donates blood between Jan. 27-Feb. 28, 2025. More details can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/Flurry.
“Blood donation is a simple act that can profoundly impact someone’s life,” Flanigan said. “There are patients who rely on blood products every day to survive. Simply put, having blood available can mean the difference between life and death.”
The American Red Cross supplies 40% of the nation's blood, supporting over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers. Locally, nearly 20 hospitals in Southern Nevada count on Red Cross donations to meet the needs of their patients. To keep up with demand, the Red Cross must collect about 12,500 blood donations and 3,000 platelet donations every day.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.