Gas Prices Up As We Get Closer To Spring

Just like the temperature gas prices are on the rise. Average retail gasoline prices in Yakima have risen 6.4 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.21/g yesterday, according to GasBuddy's daily survey of 91 gas outlets in Yakima. This compares with the national average that has increased 4.7 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.29/g, according to gasoline price website GasBuddy.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Yakima during the past week, prices yesterday were 110.5 cents per gallon lower than the same day one year ago and are 16.4 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 26.6 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 111.5 cents per gallon lower than this day one year ago.

“The seasonal lift in gasoline prices remains well underway across the country, with the West Coast seeing the most excruciating rate of price increases," said Patrick DeHaan, senior petroleum analyst with GasBuddy. “Not only is the national average up some 27 cents per gallon versus last month, but some areas- like California- are seeing extra hits at the pump as a refinery explosion and seasonal gasoline requirements leading to a home run- and not for the home team," DeHaan said.