TL;DR
A fire at Chevron’s El Segundo refinery in California has caused a rise in gas prices across the Southwest. Phoenix drivers are now paying up to $4 per gallon. Experts say the increase may continue but ask people not to panic. California’s strict rules and fewer refineries are adding to the problem. Some state policies aim to ease prices.
Gas prices in Phoenix rise after California refinery fire
Gas prices in Phoenix jumped after a fire at Chevron’s El Segundo refinery in California. The fire happened earlier this week and has affected fuel supply across the region. On October 6, premium gasoline in Phoenix reached $4 per gallon. This is still lower than California’s average of $4.64 but higher than the national average of $3.20. “It seems to me that every time the weather gets nice, the gas goes up,” said Phoenix driver Malik Hampton. “There’s an oil refinery fire or they shut down for maintenance and that just drives the price up,” he told FOX 10 Phoenix.
Experts say supply is tight but not critical
Patrick De Haan from GasBuddy said the situation is “pretty painful” for drivers. He said gas prices could rise more but may not cross the $4 mark in Phoenix. He added that California has lost many refineries in the last 10 years because of shutdowns and strict environmental rules. Matt McClain, another fuel expert, told SFGATE that prices may rise by 10 to 20 cents per gallon in the short term. He said fuel reserves and backup supply plans are helping to avoid a larger crisis.
California leads in prices as new laws bring debate
California continues to have the highest gas prices in the country. Some areas, like Mono County, report prices as high as $5.88 per gallon. Governor Gavin Newsom has signed new climate laws to help reduce prices. One law allows the sale of fuel with more ethanol. At the same time, Newsom has approved new oil drilling, which some critics say goes against the state’s climate goals. Supporters say the new steps are needed to keep prices under control, especially when refineries shut down.
Officials ask public to avoid panic buying
Experts warn that panic buying can make the problem worse. They ask drivers to stay calm and watch prices before filling up. “It’s important to stay informed and not rush to the pump,” said McClain. “The supply is tight but under control.”
FAQs
- Why are gas prices rising in Phoenix?
Because of a fire at a major California refinery, which affected the fuel supply in the region. - How high are prices now?
Premium gas in Phoenix is about $4 per gallon. Some parts of California are above $5.80. - What are officials doing about it?
California is using backup fuel, changing fuel laws, and approving drilling to manage supply and prices.
