Gas prices see record rise in Carolinas after Hurricane Harvey

In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, gas prices continue to rise in the Carolinas.

As of Friday, North Carolina saw an increase of 17 cents since before Harvey hit, bringing the statewide average to $2.36, according to AAA Carolinas, , an affiliate of the American Automobile Association.

In South Carolina, the average has increased by 20 cents to $2.26 since before Harvey.

The national average was $2.45 as of Friday, the highest recorded price for a gallon of unleaded gasoline so far this year, according to AAA Carolinas.

AAA reports that the short-term spikes are due to refinery and pipeline shutdowns following the hurricane and high demand surrounding Labor Day weekend.

“Consumers will see a short-term spike in the coming weeks due to the Hurricane and the upcoming holiday weekend,” said Tiffany Wright, AAA Carolinas spokesperson. “AAA does not expect refineries to be offline for months, as early reports indicate minimal to no significant damage to Corpus Christi and Houston refineries.”

Harvey brought record amounts of rain to the U.S. from a single storm, prompting AAA Clubs across the nation to send drivers, trucks and other resources to affected areas, according AAA Carolinas.

This story was originally published September 3, 2017 at 5:58 PM with the headline "Gas prices see record rise in Carolinas after Hurricane Harvey."