February 7th, 2015 by WCBC Radio

For the first time in four months, motorists across the country and in Maryland are experiencing an increase in gasoline prices, according to the Daily Fuel Gauge Report from AAA.  The uptick in gas prices can be attributed to a series of refinery issues in the Midwest, as well as crude oil prices trading at more stable levels. This time of year is also indicative of expected seasonal gas price swings between now and the middle of spring due to scheduled refinery maintenance and decreased production. The national average price for regular gasoline increased by 12 cents from the previous week to $2.17 per gallon on Friday.  However, Friday’s price is two cents per gallon lower than a month ago and $1.10 per gallon less than last year on this date.  The national average price of gas reached a current 2015 low on January 26 of $2.03 per gallon, which was the lowest average since March 27, 2009. Maryland’s average price at the pump rose as well to $2.19 per gallon, which is an increase of 10 cents from a week ago, but reflects an 18 cents decline from a month ago and a drop of $1.14 per gallon from the price on this date last year. Cumberland’s price stands at $2.23, up three cents from a week ago