South Dakota Gasoline Prices Expected to Fall after Short Spike

South Dakota drivers saw a general bump in price over the past week according to the latest AAA survey. Statewide the price jumped a nickel per gallon.

Gasoline prices in South Dakota for self-serve regular now stands at its high for the year, $2.79 per gallon. It’s the highest price average since November 26, 2014.

According to Marilyn Buskohl, spokeswoman for AAA South Dakota, the state’s rates are above the national average. “These price spikes are in stark contrast to what is happening in other parts of the country.” In fact, the national average has been moving steadily downward, dropping more than two cents in the past week to $2.75 per gallon.”

One explanation for the surge in price stems from some refinery problems in Texas. It forced some refiners to buy fuel to meet contractual needs, which pushed up the price of gas for consumers. The problem was felt from South Dakota to Oklahoma.

The spike should be short-lived. “We really see gasoline prices coming back down in the next few days,” said Buskohl. “Repairs at the impacted refineries shouldn’t take long, worldwide supplies are robust, demand has moderated and wholesale prices in our area are already falling.”

Statewide Huron is lowest on the scale at $2.68 per gallon with Sioux Falls close behind with $2.69. The highest in the AAA South Dakota survey is Pierre with $3.09.