'Unprecedented' Blood Shortage In NJ Following July 4 Storms

Blood supplies in the New Jersey/New York area have reached their lowest since COVID-19 following the holiday weekend's storms, according to experts.

The New York Blood Center (NYBC) has put out an urgent call for blood donors after the powerful storms led to significantly fewer donations, leaving healthcare workers scrambling to find blood.

This blood emergency comes weeks after a major shortage around Memorial Day weekend. This is the first time ever that the NYBC announced a critical blood shortage twice in one summer.

According to the NYBC, severe weather led to 3,000 fewer blood donations than anticipated, leaving the region with just a two-day blood supply.

A mixture of powerful storms, power outages, and intense heat caused multiple donor centers to experience temporary closures and operational disruptions throughout the holiday weekend, officials say.

"The impact of these storms extends far beyond damaged buildings," said Jeannie Mascolino, Vice President of Operations at NYBC. "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."

The universal blood type O- is "especially needed" as it stands at less than half a day's supply.

As donation centers begin to rebuild, representatives ask that any able donors make appointments "ASAP" to give blood.

Blood donors can donate every 56 days, and platelet donors can give up to twice per month. To view current donor eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org.