Gas prices up 17 cents this week in Fresno
Experts say refinery issues are causing disruptions on the West Coast, and the switch to summer gasoline is pushing prices higher.
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Your wallet may be hurting again soon due to rising gas prices.
On Monday, Gas Buddy reported a 17-cent increase per gallon in Fresno within the last week.
"When it comes to highest gas prices, California has now retaken the lead ahead of Hawaii," explained Patrick De Haan, a petroleum analyst with Gas Buddy
"The statewide average in California is now (at around $4.60 a gallon.) That's well above the national of $3.09 a gallon."
The recent spike resulted from an explosion at the Martinez Refinery in the Bay Area on February 1.
The refinery accounts for 10% of the state's capacity.
"To add insult to injury, not only is the fire impacting gasoline supply, the refinery is now projected to be down for several weeks," said De Haan.
In Fresno, a gallon of gas now costs, on average, $4.37, according to a survey of more than 350 gas stations in the city.
Uber drivers like Donna Dunbar are taking a hit. She fills up twice a day at 50 dollars a tank.
"Going out to eat. Can't do that. Shopping. I just stay home now and do Uber," said Dunbar.
Fresno State economic professor Dr. Antonio Avalos says that price increases at the pump will decrease how much consumers spend elsewhere.
"Like traveling, discretionary spending, going to the movies, going to other things because you have to spend your money on gas," said Dr. Avalos.
Everyone is feeling the pinch at the pump, especially those on a fixed income.
"You gotta take some money out of the food budget, rearrange some things," said a Fresno resident named Tom.
"Hold off on doing laundry. Don't run the furnace. (laughs) Those are the kinda things you gotta do."
Price increases also reflect refineries switching from winter to summer gas blends.
"Demand is going up as temperatures start to rise seasonally," De Haan said.
"All those factors will likely keep gas prices going up for at least another four to eight weeks."
A 25% tariff on goods, including crude oil imported from Mexico and Canada, may go into effect at the end of the month.
Gas Buddy forecasts gas prices normalizing once the Martinez Refinery completes its maintenance.
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