Timing becomes critical for blood donations as Tropical Storm Erika nears

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – While you're preparing for Tropical Storm Erika, consider donating blood.

According to South Florida donation center OneBlood, hurricanes and tropical storms can disrupt collections for several days, and the days leading up to tropical activity are the most critical for blood donations.

Generally, healthy people ages 16 or older, who weigh at least 110 pounds, can donate blood.

Eligible donors can visit a OneBlood donor center or a Big Red Bus to help out.

Visit OneBlood.org for more information.