Guess How Much CT's Gas Prices Will Jump By Summer

Average gas prices in Connecticut and on the national level continue to rise as the industry wraps up refinery maintenance and a conversion to the more expensive summer-blends, according to AAA.

But motorists throughout the state should brace for dramatic increases this summer.

Pump prices could jump as much as 40 cents per gallon in the United States, depending on the region including in Connecticut.

As of today, April 3, gas prices average $2.40, two cents higher than this time last week in Connecticut. However, compared to last year, prices are 25 cents higher in the state. Connecticut has move down to 14th place from 12th as the state with the highest prices in the nation, says AAA.

Nationally, the average is $2.33, which is 3 cents higher than this time last week, and 27 cents higher than this time in 2016.

"As driving demand begins to increase this spring, higher averages are expected this summer and AAA estimates an average increase of about 40 cents, depending upon the region," wrote officials in a statement. "Gas prices generally increase this time of year as refineries wind up their maintenance schedules, convert to the summer blends and better weather influences more driving. Also contributing to the expected bump in prices is an oil-reduction deal, brokered last fall by OPEC to rebalance the global oil supply. The cartel expects to extend the agreement beyond the original June deadline. Only time will tell where average prices will land nationally this summer."

AAA’s weekly survey of prices in Connecticut’s four regions:

• Greater Bridgeport/Stamford - $2.48
• New Haven/Meriden - $2.38
• Greater Hartford - $2.38
• New London/Norwich - $2.36

CT Statewide Average: $2.40

The lowest average in the U.S. continues to be in South Carolina, which registers at $2.04, followed by Tennessee at $2.08. Hawaii continues to lead the nation with highest prices at $3.05, followed by California at $2.98.

Photo credit: Renee Schiavone