Since last week, Connecticut’s average gas price for a gallon of self-serve, regular spiked a dime, while on the national level, prices rose 13 cents. These increases are fueled by icy temperatures sweeping the Gulf Coast and the Midwest, says AAA Northeast.
Storms have forced shutdowns of refineries in some Gulf Coast and Midwestern states, which in turn have tightened supplies and prompted double-digit increases at the pump.
“Drivers are filling up at some of the most expensive gas prices seen in over a year,” said Fran Mayko, AAA Northeast spokeswoman. “On the week, 66% of state gas price averages increased at least 10 cents. Connecticut is one of those states.”
As a result, today’s national gas price average of $2.64 is 13 cents higher than this time last week, the most expensive national average since October 2019. Compared to last month, the national average is 24 cents higher while compared to last year, it’s 17 cents higher.
Closer to home, drivers are also feeling pain at the pump. In Connecticut, today’s gas price average of $2.68 is 10 cents higher than this time last week, the most expensive since January 2020. Compared to last month, the state average is 22 cents higher and compared to last year, it’s 12 cents higher.
“When nearly 40% of US crude production is offline, we’re going to feel the pinch until operations resume,” said Mayko. “The good news is two dozen refiners are expected to restart operation this week, which means regular gasoline deliveries will resume and stations will be re-fueled.
Here is AAA’s weekly price survey of Connecticut’s six metro regions:
Greater Bridgeport $2.73 Lower Fairfield County $2.74
New Haven/Meriden $2.66 Greater Hartford $2.66
New London/Norwich $2.70 Windham/Middlesex $2.68
Statewide Average: $2.68
Today, Mississippi registers the lowest prices in the nation at $2.28, followed by Louisiana at $2.32. California and Hawaii continue to hold the highest prices in the nation at $3.57 and $3.40, respectively. Connecticut holds the 13th place on the list of highest gas prices in the nation, moving this week out of the top “Drivers’ Dozen.” Average gas prices may be obtained daily through www.gasprices.aaa.com.