Florida drivers experienced a rollercoaster ride at the pumps last week, with gas prices surging 12 cents before dropping 6 cents over the weekend. Despite the volatility, the state average on Sunday settled at $3.10 per gallon, according to AAA – The Auto Club Group.
While this price is 7 cents higher than a week ago, it’s still 2 cents lower than last month and a significant 25 cents cheaper than this time last year.
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“Florida gas prices continue bouncing up and down, yet have remained within the same 25-cent range since early September,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman for AAA. “However, seasonal factors could apply upward pressure on pump prices in the next couple of months.”
Jenkins pointed to the upcoming spring refinery maintenance season, which typically peaks in late February and March, as a potential driver of higher prices. Increased fuel demand from spring travel and the seasonal switch to summer gasoline could also contribute to rising costs at the pump.
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“For context, last year, gas prices rose 30 cents from late February to the end of March,” Jenkins added.
Despite the recent fluctuations in gas prices, crude oil prices remained relatively stable last week, closing at $70.40 per barrel on Friday.
While the current gas price situation offers some relief compared to last year, Florida drivers should be prepared for the possibility of higher prices in the coming weeks as seasonal factors come into play.
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