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Gas prices in Pennsylvania have increased by 9.5 cents per gallon over the past week, reaching an average of $3.29 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The rise is attributed to escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Iran, which have driven crude oil prices to multi-month highs. The state's prices are 34.7 cents lower than a year ago but slightly higher than the national average of $3.08 per gallon.
Western Pennsylvania experienced a more significant increase, with prices jumping 16 cents to an average of $3.493 per gallon, as reported by AAA East Central. This rise follows a $10 per barrel surge in crude oil prices after recent geopolitical events. The national average for gas is now $3.14, up two cents from last week.
According to Fuel Logic, Pennsylvania's average gas price has climbed 15.1 cents since January, due to global supply issues, OPEC+ limits, and local distribution concerns. The state's prices remain higher than the national average, driven by high state taxes and local factors.
Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, warns that ongoing tensions could lead to further price increases, potentially raising gas prices by 10 to 20 cents and diesel by 15 to 25 cents in the coming days. Motorists are advised to prepare for potential price hikes and consider strategies to mitigate fuel costs.