Gas Prices Hold Steady in Riverside County, But Experts Warn Increases Are Coming

Gas prices in Riverside County are holding relatively steady this morning, with the average gallon of regular unleaded sitting at $5.88, up just three-tenths of a cent from yesterday, according to AAA data. Over the past week, prices have crept up only three cents, though the month-over-month picture tells a different story: drivers are now paying about 70 cents more per gallon than they were 30 days ago.

The rest of California is tracking similarly. The statewide average today is $5.93 per gallon, up four-tenths of a cent from yesterday and about 75 cents higher than a month ago.

The short-term calm may not last. Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, warned Monday that another wave of increases is likely on the horizon. "Gasoline prices are poised for another jolt this week, with many inland states, including the Plains, Great Lakes, and parts of the Rockies, likely to see sharp increases as last week's surge in wholesale costs has yet to be fully passed through to consumers," De Haan said. He added that the national average could rise by double digits as well.