Hurricane Ida expected to help drive gas prices higher

SHREVEPORT, La. (KSLA) — While Louisiana’s interstates are open, authorities still are discouraging travel in areas hardest hit by Hurricane Ida.

That’s because fuel supplies and other resources are limited and, in some cases, there’s no gas at all; plus motorists must allow for travel delays.

“We still urge motorists to keep the interstates clear for emergency responders as undue traveling could potentially burden emergency services,” LaDOTD Secretary Shawn D. Wilson said. “Check with your parish before returning because essentials like food, water and gas can be hard to come by.”

Those who must get on the road and find themselves refueling their vehicles likely will encounter higher prices at the pump.

“I just spent $57 for what I was filling up for $30 a year ago. That hurts everybody’s pocket,” Darrell Bush told KSLA News 12.

The higher prices also will impact hurricane victims who are seeking fuel for generators.

In preparation for the hurricane, several refineries and off shore rigs halted their services for safety.

“Right now, about 96 percent of Gulf Coast refineries are offline, that accounts for about 13 percent of throughout the US, when there’s less crude oil being produced then generally gas prices will go up,” Triple A Spokesperson, Nick Chabarria said.

Some customers say gas prices right now are a hard pill to swallow.

“I know if it’s having an effect on me, then it’s having an effect on other people. I hope the prices will go down or go back to what they were, it would ease our budget,” Lorne C. Gates Jr. said.

Chabarria said once the refineries are fully operational again, prices should return to normal.

“The good news is, once everything gets back online prices should level out again,” Chabarria added.

Experts say increased travel this Labor Day weekend could also affect gas prices, and increase up to 5 cents.

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