Gas prices nationally are in the ‘longest downward streak’ in seven years, GasBuddy says

The national average price for a gallon of gas has fallen for 14 consecutive weeks.

According to gas price online site GasBuddy, that surpassed 2018′s “record decline, seeing its longest downward streak since 2015,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.

The national average price Monday is $3.64 a gallon, according to GasBuddy, and $3.68 a gallon, according to AAA.

The average price in Pennsylvania is $3.86 a gallon.

“While some states continue to see gas prices trend higher, the majority have continued to decline. However, this week could change the downward trend,” De Haan said.

“With some issues arising in Plains and Great Lakes states as the transition to winter gasoline begins, I think we have the best potential to see the weekly trend of falling prices snapped.

“West Coast states also continue to see increases as unexpected refinery issues continue to percolate, preventing a downward move,” De Haan continued. “While gasoline could nudge higher, diesel prices should continue to ease after a much-needed jump in inventories last week.”

AAA said, “Although gasoline demand has decreased, fluctuating oil prices have led to smaller pump price decreases. If oil prices continue to rise, the national average will likely reverse as pump prices increase.”

According to AAA, the Consumer Price Index last week “showed that inflation remains stronger than expected. This sparked market fears that the Federal Reserve could take more drastic measures that could lead to a recession, which would likely lead to a drop in crude demand and prices.”