war in iraq

Gas prices rising dramatically, AAA reports

Fear of a war with Iraq drives up gas prices

February 11, 2003

BELLEVUE, Wash., Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- AAA reports, the average price of self-serve regular unleaded gasoline in Washington has increased 18 cents in the past month to $1.559 per gallon. In Idaho prices have increased nearly 15 cents in the past month to $1.597 per gallon. The national average for self- serve regular unleaded gasoline is $1.605 per gallon, 13 cents higher than one month ago.

It appears that this sharp increase is due mostly to industry fear and speculation concerning war with Iraq and the possibility of another terrorist strike on the United States. Consumers are urged to shop aggressively for the best price on gasoline, look for ways to limit their gas consumption and keep their vehicles properly maintained to increase fuel economy.

             Sample Self-Serve Regular Unleaded Fuel Prices*



                            Presidents'      Holidays      Presidents'

    City                      Day 2003         2002         Day 2002

  Washington

   Bellingham                  1.525           1.362          1.083

   Bremerton                   1.514           1.309          1.123

   Olympia                     1.463           1.229          1.158

   Seattle-Bellevue-Everett    1.593           1.392          1.234

   Spokane                     1.543           1.367          1.059

   Tacoma                      1.487           1.296          1.143

   Tri-Cities                  1.583           1.449          1.143

   Vancouver                   1.500           1.306          1.197

   Wenatchee                   1.552           1.404          1.167

   Yakima                      1.503           1.364          1.251

  Idaho

   Coeur d'Alene               1.597              NA          1.002

Source: AAA Washington/Inland

war in iraq