Only five states still post gas prices below $2 per gallon, according to AAA.
The national average price for regular unleaded gasoline increased every day for two straight weeks resulting consumers paying 14 cents more per gallon, as of Feb. 9, according to a recent report by AAA.
Pump prices had dipped for a record 123 consecutive days, but beginning Jan. 27 began to rise again. As of Feb. 9, AAA reported that the average pump price rang in at $2.18 per gallon, up 12 cents compared to the week before and three cents per gallon more than one month prior.
Nonetheless, the national average remains significantly less expensive than one year ago when consumers were paying $1.11 more per gallon on average.
AAA noted that February typically marks the start of seasonal refinery maintenance. Refineries usually schedule maintenance during the first several months of the year when demand is relatively low, which can lead to decreased production and supplies, and therefore higher prices at the pump.
What’s more some 5,200 members of the United Steelworkers union have gone on strike, walking out of their positions at refineries and chemical plants, which are responsible for processing more than 10% of U.S. petroleum products. AAA noted that while news of the strike has reportedly caused wholesale gas prices to increase, abundant petroleum supplies could pave the way for an agreement between refiners and unions before consumers feel an impact.
As of Feb. 9, AAA noted that only five states are registering averages below $2 per gallon, representing 20 fewer than one week ago. Some 29 states are still seeing averages below $2.25 per gallon. Idaho drivers are paying the least for gas, with prices at a low $1.89 per gallon.