Gas prices in Tampa Bay continue their gradual slide downward and have at least come within sight of $3 per gallon.
That's a level not seen this year since February, when prices were skyrocketing towards $4 per gallon.
A gallon of regular unleaded now averages $3.19, compared to $3.22 a week ago and $3.31 last month, according to AAA Auto Club South. Statewide, a gallon now averages $3.26, compared to $3.30 a week ago and $3.38 a month ago.
Those figures represent an average of prices taken from the purchases at hundreds of stations across the Bay area, and individual stations can vary by 20 cents or more per gallon.
Gas prices are easing down primarily as crude oil prices have slumped recently amid continued economic troubles in Europe, a relatively stronger U.S. dollar and a pledge by OPEC to increase output somewhat.
"Retail gas prices are forecast to decrease further as we near the year-end holiday travel period—a welcomed gift to motorists," said Jessica Brady, AAA spokesperson.
"Although gas prices are almost 20 cents more than they were last year, they are substantially less than this year's peak price of $3.98 a gallon."
The death of North Korean leader Kim Jong Il was also driving prices lower Monday.
Two states already have dipped below $3 per gallon – New Mexico and Missouri, according to AAA data.
Brady doubts the average in Tampa Bay will fall below $3 before the new year, but if prices keep falling at this pace, some areas could have a station or two below that level.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement
Advertisement