The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis for only the second time in its history, warning that a worsening summer blood shortage is threatening patient care and prompting an urgent call for donors to give blood and platelets immediately.

The organization announced July 27 that blood donations have dropped to a four-year summer low, leaving supplies unable to keep pace with hospital demand. While all blood types are needed, Red Cross officials said the shortage is particularly severe for type O blood. The supply of type O positive blood has fallen below a one-day supply, forcing the Red Cross to limit distributions of those blood products to hospitals.

Despite thousands of donors responding since the emergency shortage was declared earlier this month, officials said donations remain insufficient as hospitals continue to rely on lifesaving transfusions for patients.

Extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses have contributed to lower donor turnout throughout the summer, according to the Red Cross.

“This summer has brought a number of unique challenges that have placed additional strain on our blood supply, creating growing concerns for hospitals and the patients who rely on lifesaving transfusions,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of donor services for the Red Cross. “If just three more donors gave at each blood drive this summer, we could help the blood supply rebound and ensure hospitals have the blood products they need throughout the remainder of the season.”

The Red Cross is encouraging eligible donors to schedule appointments as soon as possible to help stabilize the nation’s blood supply. Appointments can be made through the Blood Donor App, by visiting www.RedCrossBlood.org  or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS at (800) 733-2767.

Those who donate between Aug. 1 and Aug. 31 will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email. Additional details are available at www.RedCrossBlood.org/August.

The Red Cross also announced several upcoming blood donation opportunities in Baldwin County:

Daphne

Aug. 4, 2-6 p.m., Eastern Shore Church of Christ, 1209 Daphne Ave.

Foley

Aug. 26, noon-5 p.m., Foley Civic Center, 407 E. Laurel Ave.

Gulf Shores

Aug. 3, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, 20499 Oak Road E.
Aug. 6, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Coastal Alabama Community College Administration Building, 3301 Gulf Shores Parkway.

Lillian

Aug. 12, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Spanish Cove Community, 2205 Clubhouse Drive.

Orange Beach

July 24, 1-6:30 p.m., Orange Beach Adult Fitness Center, 4847 Wilson Blvd.

Robertsdale

Aug. 25, 2-7 p.m., St. Patrick Catholic Church, 23035 Highway 59 South.