Severe weather led to 3,000 fewer blood donations, leaving the region with just a two-day blood supply
New York Blood Center (NYBC) is putting out an urgent call for blood donors following severe storms over the Fourth of July holiday that have significantly disrupted blood collection efforts across New York and New Jersey.
Due to excessive heat, widespread power outages, flooding, and storm damage, multiple donor centers experienced temporary closures and operational disruptions throughout the holiday week. While many locations have resumed operations, ongoing power outages, travel disruptions and additional storms in the forecast are expected to continue affecting blood donations in the days ahead.
As a result, NYBC collected just 4,500 blood donations last week, approximately 3,000 fewer than expected during an already challenging summer period for blood collections. The regional blood supply now stands at just a two-day level, well below the ideal five- to seven-day supply needed to ensure hospitals have blood available whenever patients need it.
“The impact of these storms extends far beyond damaged buildings,” said Jeannie Mascolino, Vice President of Operations at New York Blood Center. “Every canceled appointment and every donor who is unable to reach a donor center means fewer lifesaving blood donations are available for patients undergoing cancer treatment, trauma care, surgeries, organ transplants, and treatment for chronic illnesses. We need donors to help replenish the blood supply as quickly as possible.”
While restoration efforts continue, some donor centers remain affected by storm damage and utility outages, and additional weather could further disrupt blood collections this week. NYBC is asking all eligible donors to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. All blood types are urgently needed to help rebuild the blood supply and ensure hospitals have blood available for patients in need.
Blood donors can donate every 56 days, and platelet donors can give up to twice per month. In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org.
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About New York Blood Center
Founded in 1964, New York Blood Center (NYBC) has served the tri-state area for more than 60 years, delivering 500,000 lifesaving blood products annually to 150+ hospitals, EMS and healthcare partners. NYBC is part of New York Blood Center Enterprises (NYBCe), which spans 17+ states and delivers one million blood products to 400+ U.S. hospitals annually. NYBCe additionally delivers cellular therapies, specialty pharmacy, and medical services to 200+ research, academic and biopharmaceutical organizations. NYBCe’s Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute is a leader in hematology and transfusion medicine research, dedicated to the study, prevention, treatment and cure of bloodborne and blood-related diseases. NYBC serves as a vital community lifeline dedicated to helping patients and advancing global public health. To learn more, visit nybc.org. Connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
