Why did gas prices shoot up in the last week?

PORTLAND, Ore. – The shortest supply of gas on the West Coast in 20 years is costing consumers extra cash at the pump.

According to AAA officials, four oil refineries in California shut down for their annual switch to their “summer blend” gas. During an equipment check, workers discovered some mechanical problems, causing the refineries to be offline longer than usual.

Another issue comes from the Cherry Point Refinery, which is the largest oil refinery in Washington. A large fire swept through there last February. Officials said there are still complications getting it back online, which is affecting output. The Cherry Point Refinery is expected to reopen in mid-May.

“According to the latest stats from the US Department of Transportation, the West Coast has the lowest gas stocks for the month of May since 1992,” said AAA spokeswoman Marie Dodds. “With that many refineries down on the West Coast, that is going to lead to tightness in supply.”

While West Coast drivers feel the pinch at the pump, gas prices are dropping throughout the rest of the US.

The current national average for regular unleaded gas is $3.73 a gallon, which is down five cents in the last week. However, the average in Oregon is 4.17 a gallon, which is up 16 cents in the last week. That is a difference of 44 cents a gallon.

“We really were on track to see prices fall,” Dodds said. “There are so many factors that influence gas prices.”

AAA officials expect the spike in prices to last for only about a week. They stressed that the increase has nothing to do with the upcoming Memorial Day holiday.

“Folks mistakenly assume it has to do with holiday,” Dodds said. “It’s not uncommon for prices to creep up, but this isn’t related.”