Gas prices in Georgia continue to move higher as ongoing conflict in the Middle East adds pressure to global oil markets.

AAA says the statewide average for regular gasoline is now $3.81 per gallon, up 2 cents from last week. The current average is 2 cents lower than a month ago, but 92 cents higher than this time last year.

At the current statewide average, filling a 15-gallon tank costs about $57.15.

AAA spokeswoman Montrae Waiters says uncertainty in global energy markets continues to affect fuel prices and recommends drivers combine errands, avoid aggressive driving and shop around for lower prices.

Nationally, the average price for regular gasoline has climbed 3 cents to $4.09 per gallon. AAA says crude oil prices above $80 per barrel, along with uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, are keeping pressure on prices even as seasonal demand softens. August is now on track to become the most expensive August on record for U.S. drivers.

Here in the Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama area, prices vary by county.

The average in Chattooga County is $3.78 per gallon. In Floyd County, the average is $3.72, while Walker County is also averaging $3.72. Gordon County is averaging $3.78.

Across the state line, motorists are finding somewhat lower prices. The average in DeKalb County, Alabama is $3.68 per gallon, while Cherokee County, Alabama is averaging $3.64.

Among Georgia metro areas, Savannah currently has the highest average at $3.88, followed by Hinesville-Fort Stewart at $3.87 and Macon at $3.86. The lowest metro averages are in Augusta-Aiken at $3.69, Catoosa-Dade-Walker at $3.71 and Albany at $3.72.

AAA says drivers should expect fuel prices to remain sensitive to overseas developments as uncertainty continues in global energy markets.