KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Tensions in the Middle East have added to uncertainty in gasoline markets across the globe, leading to high gas prices in the United States. However, while Tennessee's average gas price is 15 cents more than the previous week, AAA said it is still 15 cents less than this time last year.

"In Knoxville, we're up about 19 cents from this time last week. However, just to give a little bit of context, we are still 15 cents lower right now than we were this time last year. So it is definitely going to be a shock if you go to fill up your tank. But it could be worse, there's that silver lining that we are still well below those highs that we saw last year," said Stephanie Milan, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group.

AAA explained that the conflict between Iran and Israel has pushed oil prices to their highest levels since January, with the crude cost closing just below $75 per barrel on Friday. This is around $2 more than the previous week. After the United States bombed three Iranian nuclear sites, oil prices fluctuated between $74 and $77 per barrel during overnight trading. In May, oil prices averaged $60 per barrel.

"The long-term impact on gas prices really depends on the long-term outlook of the tensions in the Middle East," said Milan. "If the tension continues or there's a disruption in oil supply and oil getting out of that region, we could see more volatility in the market."

AAA provided a look at average prices across Tennessee's top metro areas, with the cheapest prices being seen around Chattanooga and the most expensive around Nashville.

Milan added that as gas prices rise, vehicle maintenance is important to help drivers get the best gas mileage.

"When gas prices go up, we're all kind of asking ourselves, what can we do to save some money? Vehicle maintenance is really important. Those preventative maintenance routine checks can help you get the best fuel mileage in your vehicle. Tires are also another area that you want to look at. If your tires are improperly inflated, they can actually cut down on your fuel mileage," said Milan.

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/tennessee-news/tennessee-gas-prices-rise-15-cents-how-tensions-in-the-middle-east-could-impact-prices/