SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Hurricane season has begun in the Atlantic and disasters or severe weather conditions can disrupt blood drives and impact growing blood supply. 

Sudden events can cause a rapid drop in availability of lifesaving transfusions. The American Red Cross is asking the public to continue making donations in their monthly plans. 

Ongoing donations are key to ensure medical needs are met. Type O blood donors and those giving platelets are especially needed as the summer continues. 

World Blood Donor Day is June 14, and World Sickle Cell Day is June 19. The American Red Cross is asking to celebrate the spirit of humanity by giving blood or platelets. 

Visit the American Red Cross website or the Red Cross Blood Donor app for more information on booking a time to donate. 

All blood types are needed. Two valid forms of identification are required to check-in. To save time, use RapidPass to complete a pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online. To get started, visit the American Red Cross website. 

Those who donate from June 1-30 will receive a $15 Amazon gift card, then automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,000 gift cards. Terms apply. Visit the American Red Cross website for details.