Oregon Gas Prices Jump 22 Cents Amid Pipeline Closure

Gas prices in Oregon have surged sharply over the past week, rising 22 cents to an average of $3.91 per gallon, according to AAA.

By comparison, the national average increased just three cents to $2.95 per gallon.

AAA says the spike in Oregon is largely due to the temporary closure of the Olympic Pipeline. Owner BP shut down the pipeline last week for maintenance and repairs, triggering a rapid increase in wholesale fuel prices across the Pacific Northwest.

“Wholesale prices in the Pacific Northwest shot up and consumers were hit with double-digit increases at the pumps,” AAA said.

Marie Dodds, spokesperson for AAA, said another factor driving prices higher is the transition to summer-blend fuel at California refineries. Summer-blend gasoline is more expensive to produce but required during warmer months to reduce emissions.

Dodds also pointed to rising crude oil prices, attributing them in part to geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran.

The combination of supply constraints and seasonal fuel changes has amplified price increases in Oregon beyond what drivers are seeing nationwide.