Gas prices jump overnight across Chicago area
ABC7 Chicago • • business
Key Points:
- Gas prices in the Chicago area have surged sharply overnight, with averages rising to $4.85 per gallon in Illinois and $4.79 in Indiana, marking significant increases from the previous day.
- The spike is attributed to a brief power loss at BP’s Whiting refinery and geopolitical tensions affecting shipping lanes, contributing to the highest nationwide gas prices in nearly four years.
- The rising fuel costs are impacting not only drivers, including those who rely on driving for work, but also businesses facing increased shipping and delivery expenses, leading to higher prices on goods like tomatoes and toys.
- Experts recommend fuel-saving tips such as avoiding hard acceleration, joining loyalty programs, and maintaining proper tire pressure to help consumers manage rising costs.
- Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is resisting calls to suspend the upcoming gas tax increase despite the price surge, while some consumers are turning to alternatives like electric vehicles to avoid fuel expenses.
