The national average price for a gallon of gasoline on Monday is $3.87, 2 cents higher than on August 14th. One year ago, the price was $3.90. The New York State average is $3.92, no change from a week ago. A year ago, the NYS average was $4.25.
According to AAA of Western and Central New York, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline has climbed another 2 cents higher since last week, despite lower demand and the price of oil falling several dollars per barrel and struggling to stay above $80. But the potential for hurricane development and forecasts of an expanding heat dome over Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas next week could push oil prices higher. Refineries in these states may have to curb production to deal with the sizzling temperatures. While fewer drivers are fueling up at the moment, the looming heat and entering the heart of hurricane season are a roadblock to falling gas prices. Gas prices may keep waffling until mid-September or longer.
On Monday, diesel prices were up as well. The national average price for diesel is $4.35, up 4 cents from last week, but down from $4.98 a year ago. The New York average for diesel is $4.56, up 1 cent from last week, but still much lower than $5.41 one year ago.
