The statewide gas price average in Texas is $3.49 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch. That price is four cents more than on this day last week and is three cents more per gallon compared to this day last year. Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Texas, drivers in El Paso are paying the most on average at $3.93 per gallon while drivers in San Angelo are paying the least at $3.30 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $3.87, which is four cents more when compared to this day last week and seven cents less than the price per gallon at this same time last year.
Retail gas prices are rising, but crude oil costs have dropped by nearly $5 per barrel in the past week. If this trend continues, gas prices might decrease in the coming weeks. However, hurricane season and returning excessive heat could disrupt this. Some Gulf Coast refineries had reduced output in recent weeks due to dangerous working conditions and equipment failures reportedly caused by excessive heat. While gasoline supplies are ample, if the weather were to cause a further reduction in refinery utilization fuel prices could increase.
"Gas prices are climbing, and while market changes might lead to lower prices later, weather remains a big factor," noted Daniel Armbruster, AAA Texas spokesperson. "Excessive heat and hurricane season have the potential to decide fuel price trends in the short term."
Drivers in Texas are paying the sixth lowest gas price average in the country, according to gasprices.aaa.com. Meanwhile, drivers in California are paying the most at $5.18 on average for a gallon of regular unleaded.
Prices up to date at press time using market prices posted at 3:41 a.m. Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free and revamped AAA App for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route and learn traffic conditions along that route, find discounts, locate parking, book a hotel and request and track AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at www.AAA.com/mobile.