Tropical storm may drive up gas prices
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Gas prices have been on the rise again and the latest storms will probably drive them up more. Video by ktnv.com
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Las Vegas, NV (KTNV) -- Several factors have driven up the price of gas over the last two months and now Tropical Storm Isaac is only making matters worse.
Up to a dozen Gulf Coast refineries could close as high winds and rain pummel the area.
The region's refineries produce about 22 percent of the nation's gas supplies and are home to some of the world's largest refining centers.
Prices have already been pushed up about 26 cents a gallon in the past month due to oil refinery closures and production troubles in Illinois and California.
And, a third oil holding tank has gone up in flames at Venezuela's largest oil refinery.
The new fire comes after an explosion killed at least 48 people at the site on Saturday.
Venezuela is one of the world's largest oil exporters and produces more than a million barrels a day.
Here is what we are looking at right now from GasBuddy.com.
Las Vegas has an average price of $4.61 a gallon, which is nearly a 30-cent hike since last month.
But, that is still below the national average, which stands at $3.74 a gallon.
The effects of Topical Storm Isaac on our gas prices may not be felt for a couple of weeks. But, prices are expected to rise at least ten cents or higher when they do.
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