Donations Urged As OK Blood Stores Reach Dangerously Low Levels

A statewide blood emergency has been declared, as the Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) says its blood supply has dipped below their one-day supply level.

According to the OBI, the recent bouts of winter weather have depleted blood stores to a critically low level. At least 15 scheduled blood drives were canceled due to the weather, amounting in 540 fewer donors than expected.   

"The need for donation is constant, since blood has a limited time for use," John Armitage, M.D., president and CEO, said.

"The last few days we've had a decrease in the number of blood donors.  With a typical supply of three to five days, it only takes a day or two of inclement weather to put us into an emergency status."

Learn more about the Oklahoma Blood Institute.

The OBI is encouraging all Oklahomans, ages 16 and older, who are able to make it safely to a donation center, to donate as soon as possible. Donations generally take about an hour and can be made every 56 days.

"Presently, there are adequate supplies of blood at hospitals we serve to meet the needs of patients, but our projections for need and expected donors within the next few days cause great concern," said Armitage. 

OBI donor centers are located in the following cities:

You can make an appointment to donate online or by calling (877) 340-8777.