MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — The American Red Cross is asking for increased blood donations in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy.

Because of Sandy, Red Cross officials said they’ve had to cancel about 300 blood drives out east and expect more in the coming weeks. The Red Cross typically holds about 600 blood drives daily.

They are asking anyone in unaffected areas to donate blood as soon as possible, and that includes Minnesota. The organization did move blood east before the storm hit, but hospitals are still in need.

Someone needs blood in the U.S. every two seconds, making donations very important. Minnesota Red Cross volunteers are also helping out east Thursday morning. About 22 volunteers and staff left Wednesday in a truck loaded with relief items.

“Often times they’ll do the cooking and we’ll distribute the meals, so we’ll be working together with the communities to meet the needs,” said Megan Mrozk with the Red Cross.