Olympia-area gas prices rise 15 cents in week, 35 cents in year

ROLF BOONE | Staff writer • Published February 22, 2012 Modified February 23, 2012

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Gasoline prices have spiked in recent weeks, both in South Sound and nationally, because of Middle East tensions. An oil-refinery fire in Whatcom County also is a factor here.

The average price for a gallon of regular unleaded in the Olympia area was $3.76 Wednesday, up 15 cents from Wednesday last week and up 35 cents from the same period a year ago, according to AAA Washington.

Olympia-area gas prices aren’t near record territory. Regular unleaded reached $4.39 a gallon in June 2008, and diesel prices hit $4.98 in July 2008.

Nationwide, some spots posted even higher prices. Near Orlando, one station reportedly was selling gas for up to $5.89 a gallon.

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