HAMPTON ROADS — Drivers can expect to pay more for gas the next couple weeks leading up to Memorial Day weekend.
The price of gas statewide currently costs $2.73 ––– a $1.06 more when compared to last year, according to AAA Tidewater Virginia.
And gas prices nationwide are seeing a similar pattern too.
RELATED STORY: Gas prices “significantly higher than last year,” AAA Tidewater Virginia says
“While April saw minimal fluctuation, May is likely to see much larger increases alongside demand spikes, especially closer to Memorial Day weekend,” said Holly Dalby, spokesperson for AAA Tidewater. “Compared to May 2019, U.S. gasoline demand is down only 4% and gas prices are on average just two cents more.”
Dalby noted gas stations are trying to keep up with the demand for gas, adding there have been some reports of a driver shortage, but some deliveries could see a time frame of “low to no fuel at some pumps for short periods, one or two days.”
Last month, this happened in a couple markets within a chain, Dalby added.
AAA Tidewater Virginia recommends drivers fill up their tank once the fuel level shows a quarter of gas is left and noted there is “increased market optimism” the demand for crude oil will continue to recover.
“With road trips expected to be popular this summer, some summer travel destinations, like beaches or mountains, may see some pumps affected,” Dalby said. “It is important to understand this is not a market-wide impact. Gas can be found at other stations within a market.”
“The U.S. is not looking at a gas supply shortage; there is ample gasoline supply across the country,” Dalby added. “It is just a matter of more frequent deliveries to stations to meet demand.”
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