Watch CBS News

AAA: Expect An Uptick In Gas Prices

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- It was nice while it lasted, but change is on the way. Add low gas prices to that list. Experts say prices at the pump are headed back up.

Gigi Barnett explains the uptick is linked to oil refineries that need seasonal maintenance.

Drivers rejoiced a few weeks ago when gas prices hit close to--and in some areas below--the $2.00 mark.

"I'm loving it. I can get my tank filled and it's fabulous," one driver said.

But the celebration may be over soon as new numbers released this week by AAA Mid-Atlantic show those prices are in the rear-view mirror.

With an average of $2.46 for a gallon of regular, Maryland drivers are paying eight cents more than they did a week ago.

"But, a little silver lining in that cloud is that it's still a $1.01 less than we were paying this time last year," said Ragina Cooper-Averella, AAA spokesperson.

So, what's causing it? The warmer months ahead. Many oil refineries are switching over to spring-summer blends, and some refineries are under routine maintenance.

That means less gas being produced and shipped to the pump.

"We do typically see an increase at this time of the year. But, in addition to that, we've seen some of the refineries have also had power outages," said Averella.

For about 39 straight days, gas prices have inched back up. Drivers are taking heed.

"I enjoyed them while they were down. I knew they were coming back up, so it's not a leap for me," said one driver.

"As long as it doesn't get up to $4.50 or $5.00, whatever it was a couple of years ago, it's alright. I can fill up my gas tank," said Laura Eldridge.

Experts say drivers will pay about 20 cents more this month than they did last month. The good news: most drivers across the nation will still pay less than $3.00 to fill up.

Back in late January, gas dipped to $1.25 less than what it is today. That was the highest savings drivers saw at the pump in a year.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.