Average retail gasoline prices in Florida have risen 5.1 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.73/g today, March 1. This compares with

the national average that has increased 3.8 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.70/g, according to gasoline price website FloridaStateGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Florida during the past week, prices today are 76.7 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 4.6 cents per gallon higher than a month ago.

The national average has increased 4.3 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 79.0 cents per gallon higher than this day a year ago.

“Average gasoline prices have increased nearly 10 cents over the last week for much of the United States. With warmer weather approaching, prices will climb even further,” said Patrick DeHaan, GasBuddy.com senior petroleum analyst.”

A major reason for the rise is that refiners will soon begin maintenance to

prepare for the summer driving season, cutting into supply. Some areas of the

country are already moving towards more expensive, cleaner burning summer fuels, boosting prices at the pump”, he said.