This week, gas prices in Virginia were relatively unmoved. The average price per gallon of regular gas was $4.10, a 2-cent decrease from last week’s $4.12 average. An average 14 gallon fill-up will cost Virginians $57.40, that’s roughly 28 cents in savings compared to last week’s $57.68 average.

Virginia’s gas prices remain below the national average of $4.27, a 17-cent gap. However, the gap is closing. Last week the gap between a gallon of gas in Virginia and nationally was 23 cents. 

Diesel is up slightly this week to $6.27 against last week’s $6.20, a 7-cent jump. Some relief may be on the way, however, as Gov. Abigail Spanberger has approved a temporary authorization of on-road dyed diesel. 

Executive Directive 5 waives fees for dyed diesel use in an effort to ease costs for farmers and families. 

“I am taking action to reduce the strain on Virginians by making sure that dyed diesel is available for on-road use to keep equipment running, food and goods moving, and small businesses operating. My goal is simple: support the hardworking men and women who feed, fuel, and supply our Commonwealth and all who call it home,” said Spanberger.

Her action follows a move by President Trump in October which allowed the fuels use on roads for a limited period. 

Brent crude oil prices are rising. This week they reached $111 per barrel. That’s a $5 jump compared to last week’s $106 per barrel. 

According to Trading Economics, this increase is due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, with renewed US air strikes on Iran and reports of a US and Israeli operation following midterms. 

Fears of instability are growing following Washington’s call this week for non-emergency employees to evacuate Saudi Arabia owing to more-frequent attacks by Houthi forces. 

Although the Strait of Hormuz is seeing pre-conflict levels of exports, refined oil shipments still face restrictions.