Today’s Connecticut average gas price of $3.01 is the most expensive it has been since early May of 2019, the last time the average broke the $3 mark, says AAA Northeast.
The shutdown of the Colonial pipeline that delivers 45% of all fuel to the East Coast is the latest factor pushing national gas prices, and subsequently state gas prices, higher.
Over the last few weeks, relaxed Covid restrictions, higher crude oil prices, and a pent-up demand to travel were contributing to price increases.
But this most recent development could eventually increase today’s national average of $2.97 up 3 more cents, making gas the most expensive it has been since November 2014.
Connecticut’s $3.01 average for a gallon of self-serve regular rose 6 cents since last week. It’s $1.09 cents higher than last year.
The national average of $2.97 is 7 cents higher than last week and $1.13 higher than last year.
After the company became a victim of a cybersecurity attack, the Colonial shut down the pipeline as a precaution. The line runs from Texas to New York Harbor. It’s unknown at this time when it will be operational.
“This shutdown will have implications on both gasoline supply and prices,” said Fran Mayko, AAA Northeast spokeswoman. “But the impact will vary regionally.”
Mississippi, Tennessee, and from Georgia into Delaware are most likely to experience limited fuel availability and price increases, said Mayko.
“The longer the pipeline is offline, the larger the impact on us,” Mayko added. “However, foreign gasoline imports and other pipelines are supplementing the Northeastern supply, so I urge folks not to panic buy gasoline.”
Here is AAA’s weekly price survey of Connecticut’s six metro regions:
Greater Bridgeport $3.07 Lower Fairfield County $3.07
New Haven/Meriden $2.99 Greater Hartford $2.99
New London/Norwich $3.03 Windham/Middlesex $3.01
Statewide Average: $3.01
Today, Mississippi and Texas both register the lowest prices in the nation at $2.61 and $2.64, respectively. California and Hawaii continue to hold the highest prices in the nation at $4.10 and $3.81, respectively. Connecticut moved up 1 spot to 15th place on the list of highest gas prices in the nation. Average gas prices may be obtained daily through www.gasprices.aaa.com.