America's blood supply is "alarmingly" low. Here's how Pittsburghers can give

The U.S. blood supply has reached crisis levels, prompting the American Red Cross and the Surgeon General's Office to urge people to donate.

Why it matters: A prolonged blood shortage could delay surgeries, trauma care and other treatments that depend on timely blood transfusions.

• The Red Cross says it has "less than a one-day national supply of type O positive blood," which is the most commonly transfused blood type.

Driving the news: Blood donations fell to a four-year summer low in 2026, the Red Cross said Monday.

• Current supply is not keeping up with the demand for blood, which increases during the summer.
• The Red Cross attributes the low turnout of donations to extreme heat, bad air quality and "widespread foodborne illnesses" hitting the country.

Flashback: This is only the second national blood supply crisis, per the Red Cross.

• The last time was in January 2022 when COVID, winter storms and staffing challenges disrupted the nation's blood supply.

How it works: Find a Red Cross or Vitalant blood drive near you and read up on donation eligibility requirements.

• Visit a nearby blood collection location to make an appointment.
• Consider hosting a blood drive with help from organizations like the Red Cross or Vitalant.

What's next: The Red Cross is offering incentives for donating, including a $20 Amazon gift card to anyone who gives in August.

Go deeper: A pro donor's guide to giving blood