Refinery fire and supply shortages drive California gas prices to $4.82 per gallon, rising 44 cents in a month
California – Californians are feeling the pinch at the pump as gas prices across the state continue to climb. With the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in California being $4.82, the Automobile Association of America (AAA) reports a notable rise of 44 cents in just one month.
Not only is the state’s average rising from last week’s $4.55, but it also significantly increases from $4.38 a month before. This latest figure places California’s gas prices well above the national average, which stands at approximately $3.17 per gallon.
Lower-than-average gasoline supplies and a recent fire at a significant refinery help to explain this sudden rise in fuel prices. Early this month, the Northern California Martinez PBF refinery suffered a major fire, which has affected gasoline prices throughout the state.
“Although Southern California does not receive gasoline from the affected refinery, some supply from our area may be shifting to cover shortfalls in Northern California, which is experiencing even steeper pump price increases,” said Doug Shupe, a spokesperson with the Automobile Club of Southern California, in a statement.
Read also: Residents invited to serve on San Mateo County’s boards and commissions to influence local decisions
In Southern California, the implications are obvious. For a gallon of standard gasoline, drivers in San Diego, for example, now pay $4.77, up 22 cents from a month ago. This is very distinct from the record high of about $6.44 per gallon recorded in October 2022.
Rising gas prices now influence not only daily commuters but also have more general economic consequences. Since many companies’ whole expenses include transportation, higher fuel prices could result in higher prices for goods and services. This can fuel inflationary pressures in an economy still healing from various disruptions.
Many Californians are seeking approaches to lessen the effect on their finances as they struggle with these higher expenses. Rising fuel costs lead to options like carpooling, using public transit, or changing to more fuel-efficient vehicles.
Read also: San Mateo County sees major retail shift as Hillsdale Mall plans major mixed-use renovation
The situation is still in flux, and analysts are closely tracking not only the Martinez refinery’s recovery initiatives but also other elements influencing gas prices in the next weeks. Both consumers and companies get ready for the prospect of more increases, which would cause even more significant changes in travel patterns and expenditure throughout the state.
