Gasoline Prices Soar Nationwide

Gasoline prices are at their highest levels in more than seven years. 

In Maryland, as of Sunday, the average cost of a gallon of gasoline was $3.37, up 20 cents from a week ago and $1.12 higher than a year ago.  The national average is currently 3.40. 

Drivers who normally say they are not bothered by small fluctuations are now paying attention.   

“I was on a road trip last week, and I pulled over at one gas station and noticed across the street,  it was 10 cents cheaper. I immediately left that gas station and went to the other one where it was less convenient but cheaper,” said a Maryland resident who spoke to The Click. 

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, rising crude oil prices, and the level of gasoline supply relative to demand are causing gasoline prices to soar.   Another reason for increased demand the rollback of COVID-19 restrictions, people are out and about again.

When asked if she’d cut back on driving to save gasoline another Maryland resident said “the short answer is no, because I still have to get to places.”

Inflation is not unique to the U.S.   According to The Fuse, a platform for energy commentary, Europe is dealing with a similar situation, low inventory and soaring prices.