SUSSEX COUNTY, Del.- If you are planning to fill up your gas tank sometime soon, the price tag may surprise you.
According to NBC News, it is due to a Russian cyber gang hacking into the Colonial Pipeline’s networks over the weekend which puts its four lines of oil at a standstill from getting to stations.
Public & Government Affairs Manager at AAA Mid-Atlantic Ken Grant says the rise in prices due to the problem will not be a long term issue.
"These situations are temporary. They are not shortages," Grant said. "It is important to note there is ample gas supply in the United States. It’s just a matter of getting deliveries to the stations to meet the demand."
Grant provided some tips for drivers as the problem persists. They include combining errands, using a more fuel efficient vehicle if possible, and removing bulky items from your vehicle. AAA recommends filling up once you have a quarter of a tank remaining.
Paul Gwining of Denton blames the problem on President Joe Biden.
"I am real concerned about prices going up," Gwining said. "But I don’t think our president is that concerned. I think it was a big mistake to shut down the Keystone pipeline and put all of those people about of work."
Elijil Morales of Milton says tourists even though they help the local economy could be hit bad by the increases.
"It is what it is. It helps Delaware out," Morales said. "But at the same time it clogs the highway. Gas prices goes up. Nothing we can do about it."
AAA Mid-Atlantic will continue to receive updates about the Colonial Pipeline but hopes this jump will not last long for travelers on Delmarva.