RI Gas Prices Soar, Reach 10-Year High

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island's gas prices skyrocketed over the past few days, rising by 26 cents since Monday. The average price per gallon is now $3.85, the highest since October 2012, AAA Northeast said.

This is also the largest single-week jump the state has seen since September 2017.

As of Monday, the average price per gallon was $3.59. By Friday, that number was up by 26 cents to $3.85 per gallon, two cents higher than the national average.

Lloyd Albert, a spokesperson for AAA Northeast, said the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues to cause turmoil in the international market.

"The price of crude oil started today over $111 per barrel due to the invasion of Ukraine, and will likely increase with continuing conflict," Albert said. "Improving weather will lead to more driving, increased gasoline demand, and higher prices. Pain at the pump could continue for weeks or months to come."

The national average also saw a major spike since Monday, rising by 22 cents to $3.83 per gallon.