The Puget Sound area is in urgent need of blood donations, according to Bloodworks Northwest.

A “perfect storm” of unforeseen events continues to impact blood availability leading the local nonprofit that has been supplying blood to local hospitals for over 70 years to declare a code-red alert for donors to book appointments.

“Confusion over eligibility to donate after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine (vaccinated people can still donate), record-high patient usage (up to 118% above normal), warm spring weather (when donors tend to skip appointments)…are contributing to the biggest shortage since the pandemic began a year ago,” CEO Curt Bailey said.

Bloodworks says the need will continue through Memorial Day and for the summer. It is encouraging people to “Thank a Nurse” by donating blood during May and using the code NURS when they arrive for their appointment.

Blood donations can be made at any Bloodworks center or “popup” drive by calling 1-800-398-7888 or going to www.BloodworksNW.org