The region's blood supply has fallen to just two days' worth, and the emergency-room lifeline doctors reach for first — type O-negative — is nearly gone.

The New York Blood Center declared its second blood emergency of the summer on Thursday, after inventory dropped to its lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic. Type O-negative, the universal donor type used in trauma and emergency care, stands at less than half a day's supply, according to NYBC.

It's the first time NYBC has declared two emergencies in a single summer. The first came around Memorial Day.

Normally, when one region's blood supply runs low, other blood centers can ship in units to help cover the gap. That backstop isn't available right now — inventories are down nationwide, according to NYBC.

Andrea Cefarelli, chief operating officer of blood and laboratory operations at New York Blood Center Enterprises, said extreme heat, severe storms, prolonged power outages and ongoing storm cleanup have all kept donors away in recent weeks.

"We need our local communities to step forward now," Cefarelli said. "Blood inventories are low nationwide, limiting that safety net."

The shortage touches hospitals across the New York and New Jersey region, including those serving Bronxville, Scarsdale and Eastchester. A two-day supply is critically below normal operating levels, NYBC said. Trauma victims, cancer patients, surgical patients and people living with sickle cell disease or thalassemia all rely on a steady blood supply to get the care they need.

How to help

The nearest NYBC donor center for local residents is at 601 Midland Ave. in Rye. The Rye campus replaced the former Elmsford location, which closed in May 2025 after more than three decades.

• Blood donors can give every 56 days.
• Platelet donors can give up to twice a month.
• Updated FDA guidance has eased some past restrictions, so more people may now be eligible than before.
• Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged.

To schedule a donation or check eligibility, call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org. NYBC is asking local employers, faith groups, schools and community organizations to help spread the word — and says type O donors are especially needed right now.