Georgia drivers are enjoying a slight break at the pump as the state average gas price continues its downward trend. According to AAA, Georgians are now paying an average of $2.88 per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline, a decrease of 3 cents from last week, 5 cents from last month, and a significant 49 cents from this time last year.

“Georgia’s gas prices are staying friendly to our wallets, which is great news for drivers,” said Montrae Waiters, AAA-The Auto Club Group spokeswoman. “It is all thanks to the low cost of crude oil that’s making filling up your tank manageable.” This price drop translates to substantial savings for drivers. Filling a 15-gallon tank now costs approximately $43.20, nearly $8.00 less than a year ago. However, Waiters cautions that this trend could be short-lived. “The tide could change at any moment, let us not forget we are still in the initial stages of hurricane season, and unpredictable things like storms or world events could shake things up and send oil prices climbing again.” Nationally, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline has decreased by 4 cents since last Monday, settling at $3.14. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that gasoline demand increased significantly to 9.45 million barrels a day, while total domestic gasoline supply decreased to 223.1 million barrels.

The Atlantic hurricane season, which began on Sunday, poses a potential threat to fuel prices. NOAA predicts a 60% chance of an above-normal season, and storms along the Gulf Coast could disrupt oil refineries and fuel deliveries, potentially leading to temporary price increases.

The most expensive metro markets in Georgia are Savannah ($2.97), Valdosta ($2.91), and Atlanta ($2.90).

The least expensive metro markets in Georgia are Catoosa-Dade-Walker ($2.81), Albany ($2.80), and Warner Robins ($2.79).

Area gas price averages – Chattooga ($2.76),  Walker ($2.84), Floyd ($2.79), Gordon ($2.80), DeKalb, AL ($2.69), Cherokee, AL ($2.70).