NEWS from AAA Oklahoma, Feb. 21 2007 – Gasoline prices have risen an average of 24 cents per gallon across Oklahoma over the last 26 days, according to AAA Oklahoma.

“In some locations, like Tulsa, the rise has been even more dramatic,” said Chuck Mai, spokesman for AAA Oklahoma. “On Jan. 26, the citywide Tulsa average for self-serve regular was $1.89. Today, it’s $2.17.”

Today’s AAA Fuel Gauge Report shows self-serve regular now averaging $2.15 in Oklahoma, up from $$1.91 on Jan. 26. The national average stands at $2.28, an increase of 14 cents over the last 26 days.

The reasons behind the rises are as numerous as brands of gasoline. Industry analysts point to rising concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, unstable conditions in oil-rich Nigeria and this country’s recent winter weather. Some of the increases at the pump are also being blamed on good old-fashioned profit-taking.

“The fact that the price of crude oil on the futures market is above $60 today isn’t helping, either,” said Mai. “But February is typically a low demand month, and consequently it’s a lower price month, giving motorists a break before the expected summertime price increases.”

There are seven states today with a lower statewide gas price average than Oklahoma.