Ongoing fighting in the Middle East is driving oil prices higher, which is pushing gas prices up across Georgia and the nation. However, Georgia’s gas tax suspension is helping slow how quickly prices are rising.

The average price for regular gas in Georgia is now $3.71 per gallon, up 13 cents from last week, 54 cents higher than last month, and 66 cents more than this time last year. Filling up a standard 15-gallon tank now costs around $55.65.

AAA says rising crude oil prices—now topping $100 per barrel—are being fueled by geopolitical tensions and disruptions in global supply, including issues in the Strait of Hormuz.

“Rising crude oil prices fueled by ongoing geopolitical tensions are continuing to push pump prices higher,” said Montrae Waiters with AAA. “Governor Kemp’s suspension of the state gas tax is helping ease some of the pressure, but drivers should expect continued fluctuations.”

The national average has now climbed to $4.11 per gallon, also up 13 cents from last week.

Here at home, local gas prices remain slightly below the state average in many areas:

• Chattooga County: $3.68
• Floyd County: $3.63
• Walker County: $3.67
• Gordon County: $3.65
• DeKalb County, Alabama: $3.86
• Cherokee County, Alabama: $3.80

AAA says prices will likely continue to fluctuate in the coming weeks as global markets react to ongoing tensions and seasonal demand increases.

Electric vehicle charging costs held steady this week at an average of 41 cents per kilowatt hour nationwide.