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Motorists in the Mid-Hudson Valley are experiencing rising gas prices, with Dutchess County leading the region at $4.15 per gallon. Greene County follows closely at $4.10, while Columbia County reports $4.07 per gallon. These figures surpass the New York state average of $4.10 and the national average of $4.07, according to GasBuddy.
The increase in gas prices is attributed to geopolitical tensions and seasonal travel demands. Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, noted that the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz has curtailed the flow of millions of barrels of crude oil daily, leading to higher prices. He warned that the national average could rise to between $4.20 and $4.35 per gallon.
In Ulster County, gas prices rose by 10.3 cents to $3.86, marking a 98.3-cent increase from a month ago. Greene County saw the highest monthly increase, with prices jumping over $1.03. GasBuddy data indicates that the national average has increased by 97.9 cents over the past month.
Analysts predict that if the current situation persists, diesel prices could approach $6 per gallon, further impacting the economy. As the situation remains volatile, consumers are advised to prepare for continued price increases.