Gas prices jump 17 cents in Missouri, 13 cents nationwide this week

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – The average price for a gallon of gas jumped from $3.26 to $3.43 in Missouri and from $3.58 to $3.71 nationwide this week, according to AAA.

Excessive heat has led to some refineries decreasing production output, and crude oil prices have reached $79 per barrel, which is about $12 compared to the start of June.

AAA Public Affairs Specialist Don Redman outlined his best forecast as to what gas prices may look like in the coming months.

“I think as we get into the Fall, we might get a break, but right now, I would say at least through the remainder of the summer that we’re going to see some of these higher prices where we are now compared to where we were just a few months ago,” he said.

Gas prices in Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee all sit at least 28 cents below the national average, while prices in Illinois are 24 cents above the national average.