Gas supplies are expected to tighten up throughout the Carolinas, primarily along the coastal areas and slightly more inland. The storm is likely to force a reduction in fuel deliveries, which will limit supplies at local gas stations.
AAA says some stations are already experiencing shortages and with the storm approaching, there will likely be an increase in demand. People typically like to top off their tanks to be prepared. As far as prices, AAA believes there will be a spike at the pump, but they expect that spike to not last long.
The severity of the storm will determine access to fuel supply throughout the Carolinas. Areas heavily impacted by Hurricane Florence will likely experience a disruption in gasoline deliveries.
As with any state of emergency, AAA expects gas prices to be held in check throughout the gasoline supply chain, including prices set by refiners, distributors and dealers. Price gouging laws are in effect. Since Sunday gas price averages in the Carolinas along the path of the storm have remained relatively stable.
Unlike what was experienced with Hurricane Harvey last year, there are no refineries in Florence's path, so U.S. crude processing should not be affected.
