AAA: 'The thrill of falling gas prices is gone'

Compared to January when motorists enjoyed average gas prices below $2, March has seen local price averages rise to $2.27 per gallon.

While prices have dipped several cents over the past week, local motorists are still paying 15 cents more than one month ago.

“The thrill of falling gas prices is gone, as every state in the U.S. has seen gas prices jump above the $2 per gallon mark,” said Martha M. Meade, Manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “While ample U.S. fuel supplies should act as a ceiling on gas prices, recent refinery issues (especially due to extreme cold temperatures in the Northeast) have pushed gas prices higher the past few weeks."

The lowest gas prices of $2.19 per gallon were reported at BJ's in Gainesville this week.

AAA warns that refineries are in the midst of conducting seasonal maintenance, which can limit fuel production and contribute to rising pump prices.

"In addition, there remains the potential for unexpected refinery problems to further impact production and cause temporary prices spikes in various regions," a spokesperson said.  "Ample domestic supply is expected to keep a ceiling on prices, though there is a good chance that prices will continue to rise this spring."

Barring any major disruption in the supply chain, AAA expects that prices will remain below $3 for the rest of the year.