Gas prices clawing their way back up

IRVING, Texas (KXAN) - The average for a gallon of regular unleaded gas in Texas is back up to $3.49.

Drivers in Dallas-Fort Worth are paying the most on average at $3.52. Motorists in El Paso are paying the least at $3.21. The average in the Lone Star State is 17 cents less than the national gas price average of $3.66 a gallon.

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The higher pump prices are due to rising global crude oil prices, much more expensive domestic ethanol as a result of the current Midwestern drought and an increase in demand due to the summer driving season.

Last month, the average gasoline price in Texas was $3.16 a gallon.

“Right now Texans are paying about $49 to fill up a typical vehicle’s 14-gallon tank,” said AAA's Doug Shupe. “Some analysts say drivers will likely face higher pump prices in the weeks ahead until the summer draws to a close. Price decreases may resume in the fall when summer travel ends.”