Region soon may see rise in gas prices

Gasoline prices in Missouri could see a serious spike in the next few weeks if they follow a national trend.

In a statement released by AAA on Thursday, spokesman Avery Ash said: "Gas prices have climbed to the highest levels of the year due largely to rising crude oil costs. As prices keep climbing, it's getting more difficult to believe that gas was below $2 per gallon at the majority of stations earlier this year."

On Sunday, AAA reported the California average rose more than 40 cents in a week, to $3.69.

Southeast Missouri has yet to see much of a hike in prices, however, keeping the average about $2.39, according to information found on gasbuddy.com.

According to AAA's fuel report, the average gas price in Missouri on Sunday was $2.33. The national AAA average was $2.61. On Sunday, Kansas City, Missouri, had the lowest average price for regular unleaded in the lower 48 states at $2.23.

One year ago Sunday, the average price for gasoline in the United States was $3.68, according to gasbuddy.com -- more than $1 a gallon higher.

On April 26, a survey released by Lundberg Survey Inc. said higher crude oil prices are the cause for a jump in prices that began in late April.

LSI is an independent market research company specializing in the United States petroleum marketing and related industries, according to their website.

Industry analyst Trilby Lundberg told The Associated Press last week pump prices could climb a few more pennies as gasoline prices catch up to oil prices.

smaue@semissourian.com

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