Pennsylvania gas prices lower than many parts of the country

For the second straight week, gas prices declined in Pennsylvania while the national average increased. 

According to the most recent report from AAA East Central, gas prices in Pennsylvania are more than 2 cents lower this week at $3.769 per gallon. 

In the Lehigh Valley the average price for a gallon dropped to $3.640 a gallon on Oct. 4, down from $3.680 on Sept. 27. 

The price is still significantly higher than one year ago. On Oct. 4, 2021 the average price for a gallon of gas was $3.293. 

Meanwhile the national average pump price for a gallon of gas increased almost six cents over the past week to hit $3.805 according to AAA.  

It said tight supply and increased demand are the main culprits for the jump in price.  

According to data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gas demand increased nationally from 8.32 million barrels per day to 8.83 million barrels per day last week.  

At the same time, total domestic gasoline stocks decreased by 2.4 million barrels to 212.2 million barrels. 

AAA said the regional differences in gas prices are dramatic right now with prices on the West Coast hitting $6 a gallon and higher, while Texas and Gulf Coast states have prices dipping below $3 in some areas.  

Meanwhile, gas prices in the upper Midwest have risen since a deadly refinery fire Sept. 20 in Toledo, Ohio, which closed the plant.  

According to the latest reports, the 160,000 barrel-per-day BP-Husky Toledo refinery could be down for months.