ATLANTA — Across the country, there is a desperate need for blood donations as environmental factors, including extreme heat, have led to the cancellation of more than 100 blood drives by the Red Cross -- drastically reducing the available blood supply for those in need.
Garrett Reid, who oversees more than 8,000 blood drives per year with the Red Cross, described the situation as an "emergency blood shortage."
"We need units right now, and we need them for at least the month of August," Reid said. "We've had a lot of heat impact and weather impact across the country, which has caused over 100 blood drives to be canceled coast to coast."
The Red Cross national blood supply has decreased by more than 25% since July 1, according to a release. Donors of all blood types, particularly type O, are asked to donate as soon as possible.
The shortage and call for more donors comes amid dangerous heat levels, which impacted almost 100 blood drives in July, the Red Cross said. The heat, as well as other obstacles like travel and summer activities, led to a shortage of more than 19,000 donations in July.
Currently, Tropical Storm Debbie is moving through Georgia, further affecting blood donation efforts.
"Right now, we have Tropical Storm Debbie currently moving through the state of Georgia. It has already impacted dozens of units of blood drives across the state," Reid said.
This situation is putting a significant strain on blood donations throughout Georgia.
"We may have something that is collected in Athens that comes into Atlanta. We may have something collected in Atlanta that goes and supports our Savannah team," Reid explained.
With Tropical Storm Debbie already making its mark in Georgia, Reid emphasized the importance of maintaining blood donations.
"Rolling up your sleeves is not only something that makes you feel good, it is really critical to the overall health of our community," he said.
To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). As a thank-you, all those who donate blood, platelets or plasma during the month of August will get a $20 Amazon gift card. The Red Cross is hosting several drives across multiple counties throughout the month. More information can be found at RedCrossBlood.org.