Gas prices have been rising steadily as the war with Iran intensifies, jumping 5 cents overnight.

New data from AAA shows the average cost in North Carolina on Friday is $3.61, up 12 cents in the last wo days.

>> Find low gas prices in your area

In Raleigh, the average is now $3.63, causing more anxiety at the gas pump for North Carolina drivers. The highest cost in our area is in Halifax County, at $3.70.

The national average is $3.84, according to AAA. Gas prices had been dropping steadily since late May, but the current averages are still lower than gas prices were in the spring when the national average peaked at $4.56 on May 21.

AAA compares the national average

Today’s national average: $3.846 

WRAL News has been tracking prices during the war with Iran. You can also find tips to save at the pump and how to maximize your fuel efficiency.

Sean Benett told WRAL News he is ready to get rid of his truck. 

“The pump is ridiculous,” Benett said. “It was about $120 a
tank — about $500 a month.”

Now he’s considering trading in his truck for a more fuel efficient vehicle.

“It was nice to have a car not having to make a car payment,
but it’s going to be rough getting a new one and making a payment,” he said. “[Having to pay full
insurance and everything that comes with it and this truck works just fine.
It’s just the gas is just not worth the money anymore.”

Matt McClain with Gas Buddy said driving slowly is one of the best ways to save gas.

“The best thing we can do that we can control ourselves is slow down on the highways,” McClain said. “Drive the speed limit. You’ll save 25% to 35% in fuel efficiency. That’s a very big deal, especially if you are known for driving a really lead foot and you go a lot faster than the speed limit. That’s costing you money.”

Quick tips to save on gas

Find lower prices near you by entering your ZIP code.Fill up on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays (prices go up on weekends because of higher demand).AAA recommends drivers turn off their cars if they will be stopped for more than 60 seconds and if it is safe to do so, which could include waiting at a stoplight, in a carpool line or at a drive-thru. Obey the speed limit and avoiding aggressive driving, like accelerating and stopping quickly.Remove excess weight from your vehicle.