The American Red Cross declares a national blood supply crisis in the United States as shortages worsen, according to multiple reports. The Red Cross says the situation represents only the second blood emergency in its roughly 150-year history. The organization attributes the decline in available blood to fewer donations alongside increased demand. BBC reports that the shortage worsened over time as demand remained high while donor turnout fell, creating a supply gap. Other coverage highlights that U.S. blood supplies have fallen sharply, prompting the Red Cross to issue the emergency declaration. The Red Cross’s assessment indicates the shortage has reached a level that requires heightened attention and action to stabilize blood availability for patients and hospitals. While the reports focus on the immediate conditions that led to the declaration—lower donor numbers and higher usage—they do not indicate a specific duration for the crisis or provide details on particular types of blood products beyond the overall supply shortfall. The Red Cross continues to communicate with the public and partners as it works to address the imbalance.