Gas prices in parts of the Great Lakes region could fall sharply after a sudden refinery-driven spike pushed pump prices above $4 in several states last week, according to GasBuddy petroleum analyst Patrick De Haan.
Great Lakes Refinery Issues Start Easing
The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline jumped past $4 in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin last week after those states had mostly stayed below that mark since the Middle East conflict began. Illinois nearly reached $5 a gallon on Wednesday, as regional refinery problems compounded seasonal maintenance.
De Haan said nearby Kentucky, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska and Kansas could also see increases, though likely not as severe.
Drivers May See Relief Within Weeks
In a Tuesday update, De Haan said the refinery problems were “clearing up,” which could bring relief of 20 cents to 40 cents per gallon in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Iowa, Kentucky and Minnesota could also see some easing. He cautioned drivers not to rush to fill up, saying it could take “another week or two” for lower prices to show up at pumps.
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