The American Red Cross is grappling with a nationwide blood emergency as severe weather, including the remnants of Hurricane Debby, has significantly impacted blood donations across the country. Residents in unaffected areas are urged to schedule an appointment to donate blood or platelets to help replenish the critical supply.

In recent weeks, severe weather has forced the cancellation of nearly 60 blood drives, resulting in approximately 1,500 missed blood donations. Many of these disruptions were caused by Hurricane Debby, which compounded the summer’s already low blood donation numbers. Each year, severe weather events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods and blizzards impact around 90,000 donations.

Since blood has a limited shelf life and can only be supplied by volunteer donors, interruptions to collection efforts can have serious implications for hospitals and patients in need of lifesaving treatments.

The Red Cross is calling on both first-time donors and regular donors to help rebuild the blood supply. Those interested in donating can make an appointment by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

As a token of appreciation, those who donate through Aug. 31 will receive a $20 Amazon.com gift card via email. From Sept. 1 to 15, donors also may receive an exclusive Red Cross T-shirt while supplies last.