Gasoline prices in Arkansas are on the decline, with drivers now paying an average of $3.90 per gallon, according to AAA. This positions Arkansas as the 10th-cheapest state in the nation for fuel.
The price drop is part of a routine seasonal trend, AAA spokesperson Carly McKinnis explained. "We’re seeing the winter blend is cheaper, about 10 to 30 cents less per gallon," she said. "That happens every single year. We see those prices decrease, and that is also kind of kicking in right now."
McKinnis highlighted that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates the use of a pricier summer gasoline blend through mid-September to reduce emissions. After September 15, stations can switch to the less expensive winter blend. However, McKinnis noted, many stations are still drawing from their summer inventories, so noticeable price changes often occur closer to October.
Seasonal shifts in driving habits are also contributing to the decrease, according to McKinnis. "We’re having demand go down seasonally. This happens every year," she said. "People, you know, get over the summer travel season. They’ve settled into their school routines. Families aren’t taking as many driving vacations right now. So demand has decreased about 7% since the mid-August high that we saw."
The combination of reduced demand and the switch to winter fuel blends is expected to keep gas prices relatively low in the short term.
For further updates, stay tuned to NorthArkNow.com.