AAA: National gas prices increase slightly - weather may decide direction of gas prices

By AAA of Western and Central New York

Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $3.87, 2 cents higher than last Monday. 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.

AAA Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports the following averages:

√ Batavia – $3.85 (down 1 cent from last Monday)

√ Buffalo – $3.88 (no change from last Monday)

√ Elmira – $3.87 (up 1 cent from last Monday)

√ Ithaca – $3.93 (no change from last Monday)

√ Rochester – $3.92 (up 2 cents from last Monday)

√ Rome – $3.96 (up 2 cents from last Monday)

√ Syracuse – $3.91 (no change from last Monday)

√ Watertown – $4 (up 3 cents from last Monday)

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.

This morning, diesel prices are 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.

To conserve fuel, motorists should map routes, avoid peak traffic times like rush hour, and combine errands into one trip while using cruise control when possible. Drivers should also make sure tire pressure is at the vehicle’s recommended level for the best gas mileage while removing any unnecessary and bulky items from the car, since it takes more fuel to accelerate a heavy vehicle. Get more tips here: https://gasprices.aaa.com/news/fuel-saving-tips/. Motorists can benefit from comparing pump prices before filling up with the AAA mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android.

AAA members receive discounts at gas stations such as Fastrac, Maple Leaf Market and Shell. Learn more here. AAA members can save on gas by joining the Fuel Rewards at Shell program. Join at AAA.com/Shell. Motorists can also locate gas prices across the country and stay up-to-date on news and fuel-saving tips at http://gasprices.AAA.com.

As upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA Western and Central New York provides more than 862,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com.