After the Ice Melts, Amarillo’s Blood Shortage Remains Critical

Amarillo was hit with its first big winter storm on January 23, 2026, and it shut down the city for over three days. Businesses closed, schools closed, and authorities encouraged citizens to stay home and off the roads unless it was necessary.

Coffee Memorial Blood Center Urgently Needs Blood Donation

While most people have the luxury of hunkering down at home and even working from home, there is one thing that never stops. That is the need for blood. Although the ice is melting and the storm has faded, Amarillo is still in urgent need.

Read More: How Amarillo Can Help Local Shops Bounce Back After Storm

Why Blood Donations Drop During Severe Winter Weather

When storms like this hit, people stop donating blood because facilities shut down, and most people will not drive on icy roads even if the facilities are open. Emergencies do not shut down, and during severe weather, they often increase. More people get into serious accidents, and more blood is used. When the regular supply comes to a halt,  people are at risk.

How the Amarillo Winter Storm Triggered a Blood Shortage

Due to the winter storm, 86 blood drives were canceled, resulting in more than 1,600 lost donations. That equates to roughly 700 units per day that were not collected.

What 1,600 Lost Donations Mean for Amarillo Patients

Due to this loss, many surgeries have been delayed, cancer treatments have been impacted, and emergency trauma care has been strained.

Earlier this month, the Coffee Memorial Blood Center faced a critical need, and residents came together to donate; however, as quickly as the Blood Center recovered, the storm hit and sent them right back into emergency need. Those who donated earlier this month cannot give again right now. You can only donate blood every 56 days. Platelets can be donated every 7 days, and that has a limit of 24 times per year.

Which Blood Types Does Amarillo Need Most Right Now

If it has been a while since you have given blood, now is the time. They are in urgent need of O-negative blood, the universal type that can be given to anyone. They are also in need of platelets. All blood types are needed.

It takes about an hour to donate, and your donation can save up to 3 lives. Schedule your appointment today. You can donate before work, during your lunch break, after work, or on your day off. If you ask your boss, maybe they will let you take time during the day to donate.

How to Donate Blood in Amarillo After the Storm

You can make an appointment online here or call 1-877-340-8777. If you're feeling brave in a moment and are ready to save lives, walk-ins are welcome. The Coffee Memorial Blood Center is located at 7500 Wallace Blvd., and they are open:

Monday: 9 am - 5:30 pm
Tuesday: 9 am - 5:30 pm
Wednesday: 9 am - 5:30 pm
Thursday: 9 am - 5:30 pm
Friday: 8 am - 4 pm
Saturday: 8 am - noon
Sunday: 8 am - noon (by appointment only)

Read More: Amarillo Sees First Big Snowstorm of 2026

Recovery from a storm is not just about ice melting, businesses reopening, or kids going back to school. It is also about taking care of our community, and if you can, please give the gift of life and help replenish the blood supply in Amarillo.