Donations Needed As T.S. Debby Strains Fla. Blood Supply

MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Tropical Storm Debby is not only drenching parts of Florida with relentless rain in an already saturated state, it's also impacting the state's blood supply.

According to Florida's Blood Centers, all blood types are needed, especially O negative which is the universal blood type and used to treat trauma patients and premature babies. Florida residents are strongly urged to donate as soon as possible.

Florida's Blood Centers must keep local hospitals supplied with life-supporting blood during and after a storm.

Anyone who would like to donate can either make an appointment, or walk into any branch location or onto a Big Red Bus to make a donation.

Call 1-888-9DONATE for more information or to make an appointment.

To find donation locations click here.

See how the hurricane season can greatly impact the blood supply by clicking here.

If you don't know your blood type, you can find out when you donate.