PITTSBURGH — Single-digit and subzero temperatures are keeping people at home these days, which is not good news for the American Red Cross. The nonprofit recently canceled hundreds of blood drives nationwide, including dozens of local ones.
From winter storms to wildfires, severe weather and its after-effects have caused significant disruptions for the Red Cross, specifically when it comes to collecting blood and platelet donations. The Red Cross says fire tearing through southern California, along with snow, ice, and dangerously low temperatures in other parts of the country, have contributed to 400 blood drives being canceled in January and more than 12,000 uncollected blood and platelet donations.
Volunteers told Channel 11 news that potential recipients are feeling the impacts from coast to coast.
“The need doesn’t stop. Patients in the hospital have a need for that life-saving blood,” said Cristina Maisel of the American Red Cross Greater Pennsylvania Region.
With more winter storms forecast for this week, the Red Cross fears it could further strain the blood supply, so volunteers are asking anyone and everyone to donate either blood or platelets.
“All blood types are needed, particularly O negative is always in short supply. O negative is the universal donor, that blood can be given to any patient,” Maisel said. “Platelets is the clotting factor in the blood, so we are also looking for donors who can give platelets to make that appointment this month.”
Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.
Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW
©2025 Cox Media Group