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CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Sept. 11, 2018) – Leading up to Hurricane Florence, gas supplies are expected to tighten in the Carolinas, primarily along the coasts and surrounding areas. Depending on the weather prior to the storm’s arrival, fuel deliveries are likely to be reduced, limiting supply at local stations. “Gas stations in several parts of the Carolinas are already experiencing shortages, “said Tiffany Wright AAA Carolinas spokesperson. “A storm like this causes an increase in demand, primarily due to panic buying. We are experiencing high volumes of tank-topping along the coasts and surrounding areas. As far as prices go, we will see a dramatic spike at the pump, but we expect it to be brief.” The severity of the storm will determine access to fuel supply throughout the Carolinas. Areas heavily impacted by Hurricane Florence will likely experience a disruption in gasoline deliveries. “If power is lost, and roads are closed, fuel deliveries will not resume until power is restored,” added Wright. As with any state of emergency, AAA expects gas prices to be held in check throughout the gasoline supply chain, including prices set by refiners, distributors and dealers. Price gouging laws are in effect. Since Sunday gas price averages in the Carolinas along the path of the storm have remained relatively stable. Unlike what was experienced with Hurricane Harvey last year, there are no refineries in Florence’s path, so U.S. crude processing should not be affected. |
