For Greene County News
MIAMI VALLEY – Gas prices across the country have fallen to a seven-month low according to the AAA Monthly Gas Price Report released Oct. 1. Americans are saving nearly $350 million a day on lower gas prices. The national average price of gas in September was $2.34 per gallon, which was the lowest monthly average since February 2015. By comparison, the average price of gas in September 2014 was $3.39 per gallon.
Today’s national average price of gas is $2.29 per gallon, which is the cheapest average for this time of year since 2004. Today’s average is about $1.04 per gallon less than a year ago and 19 cents less than a month ago. Gas prices are significantly cheaper than in previous years due to the relatively low cost of crude oil.
However, within the Miami Valley area the current average is $2.41, up seven cents from earlier this week and 15 cents from a week ago. Recent increases locally, and across the Midwest, are likely related to the refinery maintenance. After record-high demand due to the busy summer driving season, refineries are now slowing operations to maintain equipment for the winter and next year. Most of this maintenance should be done within a month or so, but during this time, prices in some areas may remain flat or even rise because less gasoline is being produced. The U.S. Energy Information Administration’s report this week shows a drop in refinery production.
Visit AAA’s Fuel Gauge Report to for more perspective on gas prices. Drivers can also find the lowest-priced fuel at home, across the state or nationwide. Plot your most fuel efficient route on your next trip. AAA’s Fuel Cost calculator allows you to input your start and destination city, make & model of your car and then show about how much you will spend on gas.
Hurricane Joaquin impact and tips for travelers
AAA is also keeping a close eye on Hurricane Joaquin which may impact regional gas prices in the Mid-Atlantic or Northeast next week. Hurricanes have the potential to disrupt refinery production, pipeline transportation, wholesale deliveries and gas station operations. Small hurricanes on the East Coast generally have a very limited and brief impact on prices, while larger storms/hurricanes can disrupt regional fuel supplies and distribution for a number of weeks. AAA recommends that drivers planning to travel by auto into the affected areas fill their vehicle’s gas tanks in advance of the storm in case there are any distribution problems.
AAA offers these additional tips to travelers planning to visit areas that may be impacted by the storm:
– Travelers who have booked packages or cruises should contact their travel advisor immediately to receive up to date information.
– Travelers should contact airlines directly for any flight related updates.
– For any travel locations affected by severe weather, AAA vendors will work with hoteliers to accommodate any delayed departures or arrivals.
– Travelers are always encouraged to purchase “cancel for any reason” insurance when they book a trip.
