Ohio Gas Prices Up Nearly $1 From Year Ago: AAA

OHIO — Drivers in Ohio are paying more at the pump than they did a year ago — a lot more.

According to a new study from AAA, the average cost of gas in Ohio is $2.82 per gallon, up an entire 97 cents from a year ago.

Prices are also rising quickly in the short-term, according to the study. In the last week, gas prices in Ohio rose by 5 cents per gallon.

Rising costs are not just limited to the Buckeye State. AAA found the average cost across the country is only three cents below an eight-year high of $2.99, last peaking in 2014.

The shutdown of the Colonial Pipeline, spurred by a cyberattack, pushed prices higher — a trend that will likely continue in some areas until the pipeline fully reopens. Although, Ohio will not be as negatively impacted as states on the East Coast.

“This shutdown will have implications on both gasoline supply and prices, but the impact will vary regionally. Areas including Mississippi, Tennessee and the east coast from Georgia into Delaware are most likely to experience limited fuel availability and price increases, as early as this week,” AAA spokesperson Jeanette McGee said in a statement. “These states may see prices increase three to seven cents this week.”

AAA reminded drivers that the pipeline shutdown — along with other limitations in supply — are temporary, and that no one should "stock up" on gasoline.

To avoid using excess gas and driving up the family gas bill, commuters should avoid driving at high-traffic times, remove heavy and bulky items from their cars, minimize air conditioning use and park in shady spots to eliminate AC strain.