In the United States, the American Red Cross has declared a national blood supply crisis for only the second time in its history. This declaration comes after blood donations fell to their lowest level in four years, particularly during the summer months when donations typically increase. The organization reported that in June 2026, the blood supply dropped nearly 25 percent, leading to a critical shortage of type O blood, which is the most commonly transfused blood type. The Red Cross has begun limiting distributions of type O blood to hospitals, despite it being the most requested type. The crisis has been attributed to several factors, including extreme heat, poor air quality, and foodborne illnesses, which have discouraged Americans from donating blood. Additionally, the summer season often sees a rise in serious injuries and accidents, further increasing the demand for blood. The Red Cross has urged Americans to make immediate donations, emphasizing the importance of type O blood, which can be used in emergencies when a patient's blood type is unknown. Type O positive can be given to about 80 percent of patients, while type O negative is the universal blood type. In January 2022, the Red Cross declared its first-ever national blood crisis due to complications arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. Following that declaration, an influx of donations helped restore the blood supply to sufficient levels by spring of that year. However, the current situation is dire, and the organization has stated that just three more donors at each blood drive this summer could help stabilize the national supply. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood for various medical reasons, including surgeries, cancer treatments, and trauma care. The Red Cross is also incentivizing donations by offering a Fandango Movie Ticket to those who donate by July 31, 2026. The organization stresses that while type O blood is crucial, all blood types are needed to ensure a strong national supply and to match patients with the appropriate blood type whenever possible.