There is an emergency need for blood and platelets thanks to recent severe weather, Red Cross officials said Monday.

Since the beginning of the month, severe weather has forced Red Cross officials to cancel more than 300 blood drives in 20 states, resulting in more than 9,500 donations uncollected.

Officials said this has further depleted an already low winter supply.

“Blood products are being delivered to hospitals as quickly as donations are coming in,” said Mario Sedlock, director of donor recruitment of the Alabama and Central Gulf Coast and Southern Blood Services Regions.

“Eligible donors are urged to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now and help ensure blood products are available for patients locally, and across the country, including area severely impacted by winter weather.”

To donate, one must be 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in generally good health.

The next blood drive will be held March 3, at Pleasant Home School from 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.

However, blood donation appointments can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor app, visiting redcrossblood.org, or calling 1-800-733-2767.