MOSES LAKE — The average price of gasoline in Washington has reached a year-high of $4.38 per gallon, marking a significant increase from recent weeks. As of March 31, the price represents a 34-cent jump from the previous week and reflects a broader trend observed nationwide. 

According to data from GasBuddy, which aggregates information from over 12 million individual price reports from more than 150,000 gas stations across the United States, the national average for gasoline now stands at $3.11 per gallon, an increase of 2.7 cents from the prior week and 2.2 cents higher than a month ago. In comparison, prices remain nearly 40 cents lower than a year ago, presenting a slight reprieve for American drivers despite the current climb. 

Washington's sharp rise in gasoline costs is attributed to renewed refinery issues on the West Coast, which could lead to further price increases of 10-35 cents per gallon in the coming weeks. Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, cautions motorists in the Northwest to fill up soon, as the transition to summer gasoline is just around the corner, likely exacerbating price hikes. 

As the nation approaches April, analysts predict that gasoline prices will continue their upward trajectory. An ongoing uncertainty regarding potential tariffs set to be implemented on April 2 has stirred speculation about an expensive period ahead for consumers. 

In Washington, the average diesel price stands at $4.38 per gallon, substantially above the median U.S. rate of $3.49 per gallon. The state's price ranks among the highest in the country, trailing only California and Hawaii.