Gas prices have recently reached a new record high across Massachusetts, with the current average in Middlesex County at $4.346 per gallon.
According to recent data from AAA, the state experienced a 61¢ per gallon increase in just the past seven days, with the statewide average at $4.24 per gallon and the national average at $4.17 per gallon.
The state’s highest gas prices are found on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, where gas prices are as high as $5.08 per gallon.
Much of the rapidly rising gas prices has to do with last month’s invasion of Ukraine by Russia, and the subsequent sanctions placed on Russia by the U.S. government and many other western countries.
Many U.S. politicians condemned the Russian government for the invasion and supported banning Russian imports.
The sanctions included a ban on Russian oil and gas imports, which was initiated by President Joe Biden earlier this month. U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan of Westford was among the other U.S. lawmakers calling for a ban on Russian oil and gas.
Additionally, as a result of the sanctions, the average cost for heating oil in the state is now $5.02 per gallon, and the high is $6.00 per gallon.
The AAA stated that the best methods of conserving gas are to buy regular gas, slow down to be more fuel efficient, properly inflate the car’s tires and drive less if possible. AAA also created an app to help Massachusetts residents find the best gas prices in their area.
