Richmond gas prices spike amid U.S. and Iran conflict

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Higher gas prices could hit drivers’ wallets, and experts said that tensions in the Middle East are playing a role.

At the Sheetz on Midlothian Turnpike in Chesterfield County, drivers paid nearly $3.30 a gallon Monday. According to AAA, that’s more than a quarter higher than what the statewide average was on Monday, March 2.

Iran is a key player in the global oil market, and analysts said any disruption to its oil production could impact the price drivers pay at the pump.

Since Monday, AAA spokesperson Morgan Dean said the state average has increased by more than a dime. AAA data also shows that the Richmond area has some of the highest gas prices in Virginia.

GasBuddy experts also say prices have risen.

“All of it will amount to an average increase across the country of probably 15 to $0.30 a gallon over the next two weeks," said GasBuddy expert Patrick De Haan. "I am expecting the national average will hit that $3 a gallon mark."

De Haan said prices were already trending upward nationwide with a seasonal change, but emphasized that tensions in the Middle East are intensifying that.

"Convenience stores may be telling their stations not to roll prices down quickly in light of the situation and uncertainty in Iran," De Haan said. "It will be a noticeable jump at the pump, but it likely will be temporary as well."

Experts caution that any developments in the Middle East could change what drivers are seeing at gas stations.