ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Tropical Storm Debby has already wreaked havoc on the Southeast since her landfall Monday morning in Florida as a Category 1 hurricane.

While the storm makes its way up the east coast, the National Hurricane Center warns that heavy rainfall could cause catastrophic flooding in southeast Georgia and eastern South Carolina. Heavy rainfall is expected in central to eastern North Carolina, while the western part of the state, so far, could see less rainfall. This is all dependent on Debby’s shifting path.

As Western North Carolina community members prepare for rainfall, there are ways they can help those in areas hit harder by the storm. The Blood Connection (TBC) says it is experiencing an increased need for blood donors as the coastal Southeast suffers from the storm’s impacts. The organization says in a press release that it expects it will not be able to collect “all of the 1,000 donations needed per day to sustain local hospital needs unless community blood donors step up ahead of the storm and roll up their sleeves now.”

“We are in a critical time window to get the donations we need before the hurricane so there is no worry about local supply,” said Delisa English, president and CEO of The Blood Connection, in a release. “The need for blood donors never stops. Saving lives is TBC’s responsibility and that doesn’t change when the weather does. Local hospital patients are counting on us.”

TBC says donations in Upstate South Carolina, Western North Carolina, Raleigh and Virginia will be crucial this week in making sure local blood supply holds steady throughout the storm. TBC provides blood products to more than 120 hospitals in four states (both Carolinas, Georgia and Virginia), some of which are along the East Coast. As those communities prepare for the hurricane, TBC says blood donors in other communities farther inland are being asked to support those unable to donate because of the hurricane.

To make an appointment at one of TBC’s 16 donation centers, or to find a mobile blood drive near you, CLICK HERE. Appointments are encouraged but not required.

Hosting blood drives is also essential through this increased time of need. To host a blood drive, CLICK HERE.

The American Red Cross has deployed over 250 trained volunteers to Florida to provide help and comfort for people impacted by Debby. They are also mobilizing additional volunteers and support for Georgia and the Carolinas.

Folks back at home can donate blood to the American Red Cross as well. The organization has announced a national blood shortage which could be further exacerbated by Debby as widespread flooding, power outages and travel hazards are likely to result in additional blood drive cancellations and lower donor turnout.

CLICK HERE to learn more about donating blood with the American Red Cross.