The American Red Cross has a “critical” need for blood donors following a shortage of blood this winter season, said officials.

Over the course of January, more than 550 American Red Cross blood drives have been canceled. The Red Cross reports that over 16,500 blood and platelet donations have gone uncollected.

These cancellations have been attributed to severe winter weather and the prevalence of the seasonal flu this year, said Red Cross officials.

The American Red Cross provides relief to disaster victims. Nationally, they provide about 40 percent of the country’s blood supply. The Red Cross relies on the generous work of volunteers across the country and donations from the public.

“Blood and platelet donations are currently being distributed to hospitals faster than they are coming in,” says Clifford Numark, senior vice president, Red Cross Blood Services.

Related: Red Cross Offers Tips To Help Fight Potential Summer Blood Shortage

Due to these shortages the American Red Cross is urging people to get out and donate blood.

Donations are accepted by individuals in generally good health, are 17 years of age or older and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds. Donors under the age of 18 might be subject to other specific height and weight requirements.

A driver’s license, blood donor card or two other forms of identification are required at check-in in order to donate blood. Donors can speed up the process by utilizing the American Red Cross’s RapidPass system. The system allows donors to complete a pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online before their donation.

To learn more about RapidPass click here.

Potential donors are encouraged to download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App here. To schedule an appointment or learn more about the Red Cross please visit their website by clicking here or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

This donated blood goes towards people with a wide range of medical conditions. These donations are credited with saving countless lives, and providing relief for individuals and families affected by these hardships.

If you are interested in donating here are locations of Santa Clarita blood drives:

Castaic
1/29/2018: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., SCVI Charter School, 28060 Hasley Canyon Road, Suite 200

Newhall
2/11/2018: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 23233 Lyons Ave

Santa Clarita
1/24/2018: 2 p.m. – 7 p.m., Santa Clarita Old West Masonic Lodge, 19310 Avenue of the Oaks
1/26/2018: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Best Buy, 26531 Bouquet Canyon Rd
1/31/2018: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m., Santa Clarita Old West Masonic Lodge, 19310 Avenue of the Oaks
2/7/2018: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m., Santa Clarita Old West Masonic Lodge, 19310 Avenue of the Oaks
2/10/2018: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Grace Baptist Church, 22833 Copper Hill Dr.
2/14/2018: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m., Santa Clarita Old West Masonic Lodge, 19310 Avenue of the Oaks

Those looking to help further may volunteer with the organization. Among these volunteers for the American Red Cross are transportation specialists. These individuals provide an invaluable service by delivering blood to areas that need it. If you would like to be a volunteer transportation specialist or learn more about being a volunteer click here.

As Santa Clarita’s only local radio station, KHTS mixes in a combination of news, traffic, sports, and features along with your favorite adult contemporary hits. Santa Clarita news and features are delivered throughout the day over our airwaves, on our website and through a variety of social media platforms. Our KHTS national award-winning daily news briefs are now read daily by 34,000+ residents. A vibrant member of the Santa Clarita community, the KHTS broadcast signal reaches all of the Santa Clarita Valley and parts of the high desert communities located in the Antelope Valley. The station streams its talk shows over the web, reaching a potentially worldwide audience. Follow @KHTSRadio on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and sign up for KHTS email and text alerts today!