The American Red Cross has declared a national "blood crisis" after blood donations fell to a four year summer low, worsening an emergency shortage across the United States.

The organization said this is only the second time it has issued a national blood supply crisis warning.

In a press release, the Red Cross said the drop "threatens the availability of lifesaving blood for patients across the country," as hospitals continue to rely on donated blood.

The shortage is now affecting how type O blood is distributed to hospitals. The Red Cross, the nation’s largest single provider of blood products, now has less than a one day national supply of type O positive blood.

Here's What They're Not Telling You About Your Retirement

Type O blood is central to the Red Cross supply because it accounts for about 60% of its blood distributions. The organization said it is essential for both everyday patient care and medical emergencies.

According to the Red Cross, type O positive is the most commonly transfused blood type. It can be safely given to about 80% of patients.

Type O negative remains the universal blood type "relied upon when every second counts."

The Red Cross said thousands of Americans are still showing up to donate blood. However, those donations are not keeping pace with hospital demand during summer trauma season.

This Could Be the Most Important Video Gun Owners Watch All Year

The organization reported that extreme heat, poor air quality and foodborne illnesses have contributed to lower donor turnout this summer. Other blood collectors have also reported critical shortages.

Dr. Baia Lasky, medical director for the organization, joined Fox & Friends First to discuss the impact on hospitals. She also detailed the urgent need for type O donations and explained how viewers can help.

The Red Cross said just three more donors at each blood drive can end the crisis and stabilize the blood supply. It encouraged Americans to make an appointment through the Blood Donor App or at RedCrossBlood.org.

Chris Hrouda, president of Red Cross Biomedical Services, addressed the emergency in a statement released by the organization.

"The Red Cross takes its responsibility as the nation’s largest single provider of blood products incredibly seriously and has worked tirelessly to strengthen the blood supply for our hospital partners," he said.

Hrouda pointed to the organization’s first national blood crisis in January 2022. After that emergency, he said the Red Cross put "additional safeguards" in place to help "prevent a crisis like that from happening again."

This summer, however, Hrouda said blood donations are not keeping pace with hospital demand. He also said inventories, especially type O blood, remain under significant strain.

The organization’s warning centers on the availability of blood for patients across the country. It also comes as type O supplies have dropped to levels the Red Cross describes as dangerously low.

"Every donation has the potential to help save lives , and we urgently need everyone who is eligible to make an appointment to give blood as soon as possible."

The Red Cross is urging eligible donors to act quickly as hospitals continue to need blood products. Its message remains focused on restoring supply and easing pressure on hospitals during the ongoing shortage.

---

Are you feeling overwhelmed or hopeless right now? Have you been withdrawing from people or activities you usually enjoy? Are you having thoughts about hurting yourself, or feeling like things will never improve?

You do not have to handle those feelings alone. Support is available, and talking to someone can make a difference. You can reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or by chatting online at 988lifeline.org. Trained counselors are available 24 hours a day to listen and help.

If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call emergency services right away. Even a small step, like reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, or professional, can help create a path forward.