Gas prices see decrease

SANDPOINT — Lower prices at the pump may be a welcome sight for drivers, but AAA officials said that trend could change due to tensions in the Middle East.

The average price for a gallon of regular in the Gem State is $3.99, which is 6 cents less than a week ago, 16 cents less than a month ago and 42 cents less than a year ago, AAA officials said Monday.

In Bonner County, the price for an unleaded gallon of gas averaged $4.07. In Coeur d'Alene, prices were as low as $3.89, and in Bonners Ferry, the price averaged about $4.04.

Meanwhile, the national average sits at $3.60 per gallon, which is 10 cents less than a week ago, 27 cents less than a month ago and 29 cents less than a year ago.

Idaho currently ranks eighth in the country for most expensive fuel behind California ($5.62), Washington ($4.90), Nevada ($4.79), Hawaii ($4.78), Alaska ($4.56), Oregon ($4.54) and Arizona ($4.32).

Today’s cheapest fuel can be purchased in Delaware and Georgia at $3.07 per gallon. All 50 states are reporting cheaper gas prices than a week ago.

“In the days since Hamas terrorists attacked Israel, the crude oil market has faced some

uncertainty, but as long as other nations don’t get directly involved in the conflict, those concerns may dissipate,” said Matthew Conde, AAA Idaho public affairs director. “This week, the price of fill-ups may bounce above and below $4 based on what crude oil prices and fuel demand are doing.”

The West Texas Intermediate cost of crude is back at $87 per barrel today, $4 less than a month ago but $2 more than a year ago. Crude oil makes up more than half the price of finished gasoline.

Idaho gas prices as of Monday were: Boise, $4.02; Franklin, $4.05; Pocatello, $3.94 and Twin Falls, $3.96.