The recent snow and ice storms have lead to people cancelling their appointments to donate blood and platelets.
Also many blood drives held at schools and community centers have been cancelled due to the weather.
Pennsylvania and New Jersey are behind by at least 18-hundred units right now. Nationally, the Red cross says it is 14,000 units behind its usual supplies.
The Red Cross says a blood transfusion is needed every 2 minutes. Platelets only have a 5-day shelf-life, and red blood cells are only good for 42 days.
All blood types are needed, but especially O-negative, considered the universal type.
The Red Cross is urging people to donate. If you can, please do.
To make an appointment, go to the American Red Cross website.
