According to AAA, the average gas price across the country will drop the week to less than $2 per gallon.
Currently, the average gas price is $2.01 per gallon, 68 cents less than it was a year ago, and 11 cents less than it was a week ago.
Experts predict the price will continue to fall.
“This week, the national gas price will drop below $2/gallon for the first time in four years, and it won’t stop there as demand for gasoline diminishes as Americans stay home,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “Ten states already have averages at $1.75 or less.”
With crude oil prices in the $20 per barrel range, and U. S. drivers staying home amid social distancing requirements to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, are contributing to the price decreases. Additionally, winter-blend gasoline is still available. On March 27, the Environmental Protection Agency extended the sale of winter-blend gas to May 20, which will also contribute to lower prices. Summer-blend gas is more expensive to produce.
The EPA said it would continue to monitor how much winter-blend gas is available and, if necessary, extend the waiver again.
Summer-blend gasoline has a lower volatility to prevent excess evaporation during warmer temperatures to decrease gas emissions for healthier air.