economy
Gas prices top $4.50 a gallon, reaching highest level since July 2022
Gasoline prices across the U.S. surged to an average of $4.54 a gallon on Wednesday, the highest since July 2022, according to AAA data.
TL;DR
- Average U.S. gasoline prices reached $4.54 per gallon, the highest since July 2022.
- Prices have jumped 52% since the start of the Iran war in late February.
- Disruptions to oil flows in the Middle East are the primary cause of rising costs.
- The Strait of Hormuz, crucial for oil transport, remains largely closed, constraining global supply.
- Prices rose in all states, with significant spikes in the Great Lakes region.
- Even with a potential U.S.-Iran agreement, gas prices are expected to remain elevated.
- Global oil inventories are nearing their lowest point since 2018.
- Factors beyond crude oil prices, such as refinery issues and seasonal demand, also influence gas prices.