Crisis Alert: Amarillo, Texas Faces Blood Shortage Due To Extreme Cold Weather

While most of us in Amarillo, Texas are doing our best to stay warm and prep for days and nights spent inside away from the brutal temps, we aren't thinking about giving blood. It's understandable. The holiday season is a busy time of year, and most of us spend January recuperating. Unfortunately, it's put us in a dire situation.

Emergency Blood Shortage Declared In Amarillo, Texas

According to a press release from Coffee Memorial Blood Center, there is currently only a 1 - 2 day blood supply. It doesn't take Sherlock Holmes to deduce that this is a horrible thing. The press release states that this could impact cancer treatments and the scheduling of surgeries and transfusions.

It's a dire situation. With the recent wave of frigid temperatures, people have been canceling appointments to donate blood, according to the press release. This has led to more blood going out than coming in.

It's even more troubling when you realize that Coffee Memorial Blood Center is the only provider of blood to the Texas panhandle, a point made in the press release.

Blood Donations Are Needed ASAP In The Texas Panhandle

In the press release, donors are urged to reschedule canceled appointments as soon as possible. Especially when the weather has cleared up.

If you are 16 years old or older and healthy, then you are eligible to donate. If you are successful in making your donation, you'll receive a glow-in-the-dark "When I'm Not Hibernating, I'm Donating Blood" t-shirt. You'll also receive a ticket to Escape The Trap House in Amarillo.

It's scary to think that our blood supply would be so low that it would impact our ability to receive medical care. If you want more info, check out this website, where you can also make your appointment.