The 'summer driving season' is underway and gas prices in Texas are continuing to climb above the $2 mark.

According to this week's AAA Texas Gas Watch, the average price of regular unleaded in Texas is now $2.12 a gallon.  That's up four cents from last week, but down 39 cents from one year ago. The national average is also up this week, by two cents, to $2.33 a gallon.

According to AAA Texas, drivers are paying the lowest gas prices for this time of year in more than 10 years. Gas prices for the 2016 Memorial Day holiday weekend were the cheapest since 2005.

AAA Texas expects this year’s summer driving season to have higher-than-normal gasoline demand, and the demand remains on pace to reach record levels from 2007. Refineries nationwide are working in preparation for what is likely to be record breaking season and if they are able to keep pace, pump prices should remain relatively lower.

However, two factors that could curtail driving and demand, severe weather and Atlantic hurricanes.

“In Texas the summer driving season has been ushered in with historic levels of rain and flooding and more wet weather is in the forecast for much of the state this week. Driving in wet weather conditions requires preparation, good tires, well-maintained brakes, and streak-free wipers.” said AAA Texas/New Mexico Representative Sarah Schimmer. “To stay safe behind the wheel during wet weather be aware of road conditions, reduce speed appropriately, and be prepared for challenging situations.”

 

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