OBI In Need Of Blood Donors After Winter Weather Moves Through Oklahoma

The Oklahoma Blood Institute is urging Oklahomans to donate blood this week, as the supply is extremely low due to winter weather. OBI leaders say last week's winter weather lead to them losing 70% of their anticipated donations last week when the scheduled blood drives were canceled.

The OBI says that number is likely to go up as some people still aren’t able to make it to a donation center due to some lingering snow and ice.

They say the demand for blood is also above average right now, putting an additional strain on the current supply. OBI counts on having at least 1,200 donors a day in order to keep their supply up for 160 hospitals and medical facilities across the state.

Leaders are asking those who are 16 and older to find a donation drive or center near you to help tackle the shortages caused by the weather.

President and CEO John Armitage said in a statement “We are calling on all healthy Oklahomans to take an hour of their time to give blood to our friends and neighbors in need. Together we can rebuild the blood supply.”

If you can donate, head to OBI.org to find a donation location near you.