Since the devastation of Hurricane Ida in Louisiana this past weekend, gas prices in Kansas have notably seen a slight uptick. Thankfully, AAA Kansas is assuring residents this will not be a prolonged trend.
According to AAA Kansas Spokesman Shawn Steward, in the days following Ida’s arrival in Lousiana Kansas gas prices have risen by roughly four cents which is just above the national average of three cents. He says this is a common occurrence often seen following major incidents such as hurricanes impacting the gulf coast, or more specifically oil refineries and drilling platforms in the gulf.
Overall, Steward says the recent increases are “fairly modest.”
Locally speaking, the majority of the KVOE listening are is right on par with statewide prices according to Gasbuddy.com. In Lyon County, the average price per gallon is $2.89 which is relatively even with Chase, Greenwood and Wabaunsee counties where the average price per gallon is between $2.89 to $2.91.
Morris County’s average price ranges between $2.85 to $2.95 while the average price in Osage County is $2.95. Coffey County has the highest prices at this time ranging between $2.95 to just over $3 a gallon.
Historically, Steward says gas price increases in the wake of natural disasters tend not to last for long and AAA Kansas is confident the trends should reverse course as repair work proceeds on oil refineries and drilling platforms. Assistance has been pouring into Louisiana since Ida hit including from Kansas where Evergy mobilized roughly 100 crews from Kansas and Missouri earlier this week to assist with repair work.
In the meantime, Steward says there are a number of ways that residents can maximize their gas mileage and save a few cents at the gas pumps. Steward says residents should ensure their cars are properly “tuned up” and tires are properly aired up, he also advises drivers to avoid jackrabbit starts, obey speed limits and remove any heavy objects that add large amounts of weight to the vehicle and thus cause the engine to use more gas.
For more information or questions visit Kansas.AAA.com.
