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Central New York drivers are experiencing a slight relief at the gas pumps as prices have decreased recently. According to AAA, the average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $3.14, marking a three-cent drop over the past week. However, this price is still four cents higher than it was a month ago.
The current state average for New York is $3.20 per gallon, while the national average sits at $3.13. The decline in prices comes as the demand for gas decreases with the onset of fall, and the transition to winter-blend gasoline, which is cheaper to produce, begins. This trend is expected to continue if crude oil supply continues to outweigh demand.
AAA Western and Central New York reports that the state's average price is eight cents lower compared to September of last year. Despite a recent pipeline outage in the Pacific Northwest causing localized price surges, most of the country, including New York, has not felt significant impacts.
Motorists are advised to keep an eye on weather developments in the tropics, as these could influence future gas prices. If current conditions persist, drivers may see further declines in fuel costs in the coming weeks.