First State gas prices continue to rise.
AAA Mid-Atlantic reports the average price for a gallon of regular in First State has increased by 5 cents from $2.62 to $2.67 over the past week.
That price is still nearly a dollar less than what Delaware drivers were paying a year ago at an average of $3.60.
Delawaregasprices.com reports there are just under a dozen stations selling a gallon of regular for $2.57 or slightly less – mostly in New Castle County.
Delaware drivers are paying 7 cents below the national average, which has remained steady at $2.74 since last week.
Prices nationally are trending higher, due to increasing crude oil prices. Motorists in the Western and Midwestern states are paying higher prices, compared to the East Coast due to refinery issues.
According to AAA officials, prices could be influenced by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which can put production at risk. But the improving strength of the dollar could lead to lower oil prices here in the U.S.
