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After falling 9 weeks straight, experts say gas prices may rise again

Gas prices gave fallen for nine weeks straight, but experts say that trend could start reversing this week.

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GARNER, N.C. — Gas prices gave fallen for nine weeks straight, but experts say that trend could start reversing this week.

AAA on Tuesday reports gas prices are down 15 cents in the last week. But as oil prices rebound, Gas Buddy indicates wholesale gasoline prices have been on the rise.

Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, said wholesale gasoline prices have increased as much as 40 cents per gallon.

"That means the decline in average prices could wrap up soon, with some price increases possible as early as this week, especially in areas of the Great Lakes," De Haan said. "While the West Coast and some areas of the Rockies may see prices continue to drift lower, I do believe the national average could tick higher this week as the better than expected jobs report last week likely means less demand destruction than anticipated."

The strong U.S. jobs report released earlier this month, the war in Ukraine and the peak of hurricane season could also impact gas prices.

On Tuesday, the national average was $3.94. It peaked at $5.02 in June.

The state average on Tuesday is $3.65. The state average peaked at $4.67 in June.

Drivers told WRAL News they don’t like the high prices but also don’t believe they have a choice.

"I look at it this way…regardless, you want to go, you’re going to go," said Ray Powell. "Whether the gas is up or the gas is down, you’re gonna drive, that’s how I look at it."

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