MIAMI — January is National Blood Donor Month, and this year the American Red Cross declared there is a “severe blood shortage” in the United States.

Dr. Courtney Lawrence said the extreme winter weather prompted blood drives to be canceled, as the flu season increased hospitalizations.

“That can overwhelm our health care system,” said Lawrence, the divisional chief medical officer at the American Red Cross.

Lawrence said the flu season alone could have an impact and affect vulnerable patients, some of whom are dealing with emergencies, surgeries, chemotherapy-related blood disorders, and sickle cell disease.

“Donors may not be feeling well enough to come in to donate or may be busy taking care of their loved ones who are sick,” Lawrence said about the flu season’s domino effect on supply.

To encourage new donors, the NFL partnered with the Red Cross this month with a Super Bowl LX in 2026 trip sweepstake until Jan. 25.

The Miami Heat partnered with OneBlood to give donors at Big Red Bus locations vouchers for two game tickets, a Lifesaver long-sleeve T-shirt, and a wellness checkup.

For information on how to make an appointment to donate, visit the Red Cross Blood Donation page or get the Blood Donor app.

PEMBROKE PARK, Fla.