OLYMPIA, WA — Washington state health officials have declared a Code Red after two of the three regional blood banks serving the state reported critically low blood supplies, raising concerns for hospitals and emergency medical providers.

According to the Washington State Department of Health, the shortage is being driven by lingering impacts from heavy rains and flooding in December, along with a significant slowdown in blood donations. Type O blood and platelets are especially limited, both of which are frequently needed for emergency treatments, surgeries, and other life-saving procedures .

Officials said both Bloodworks Northwest and the American Red Cross have begun importing blood from outside the region to meet demand, but that approach is not considered sustainable. Winter weather, holiday travel, and cancelled blood drives have also reduced donations nationwide.

Bloodworks Northwest reported it currently has less than a one- to two-day supply of critical blood types and platelets available. The organization estimates it needs approximately 1,000 donors per day to maintain an adequate blood supply. Through the end of February, more than 38,000 donation appointments remain open, with nearly 23,000 needing to be filled by mid-February to stabilize supply levels.

Health officials noted that a single pint of donated blood can help save up to three lives by providing red blood cells, plasma, or platelets for patients in need. Donation appointments typically take about an hour to complete.

Residents interested in donating blood are encouraged to check eligibility requirements and appointment availability through regional blood collection organizations.

Local blood banks and donation centers

• Vitalant Blood Donation‑Lewiston
  1213 21st St, Lewiston, ID 83501
  Phone: (877) 258-4825

• American Red Cross Blood Donation Center
  508 Thain Rd, Lewiston, ID 83501
  Phone: (208) 798-4613

• American Red Cross of Whitman County (serving wider Inland Northwest)
  115 NW State St, Rm 313, Pullman, WA 99163
  Phone: 1-800-RED-CROSS (standard Red Cross line)