The American Red Cross reports a severe national blood shortage, with hospital demand outpacing donations and reducing the available blood supply by an estimated 35% during the past month. According to the organization, recent extreme weather has forced the cancellation of multiple blood drives across the country, further straining inventories.

The Red Cross urges eligible donors to give blood or platelets as soon as possible to help prevent delays in patient care. Appointments can be made at redcrossblood.org by entering a ZIP code.

Several local blood drives are scheduled in the coming weeks:

• Kane — 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Monday, Grace Bible Church, 353 E. Hemlock Ave.
• Johnsonburg — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 6, Johnsonburg United Methodist Church, 5 Clarion Road
• Bradford — Noon to 5 p.m. Feb. 17, First Presbyterian Church, 54 E. Corydon St.

The Red Cross will offer a $20 e‑gift card to donors who give blood between Jan. 26 and Feb. 28.