Gas prices rise again in Pennsylvania as statewide average climbs for 18th consecutive day

HARRISBURG, DAUPHIN CO. (WOLF) — Gas prices continued their steady climb in Pennsylvania on Monday, March 16, with AAA reporting another increase at the pump across the Commonwealth.

The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Pennsylvania rose to about $3.72 per gallon Monday, up from roughly $3.70 on Sunday, March 15. The increase marks an 18th consecutive day of rising gas prices statewide.

Nationally, the average price for regular gasoline has also increased slightly, reaching around $3.72 per gallon, as global oil markets remain volatile.

Energy analysts say the price spike is tied largely to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route that typically carries about 20% of the world’s oil supply. When traffic slows or stops through the strait:

Tankers carrying millions of barrels of oil are delayedOil producers struggle to export crude

The U.S. is trying to build a multinational naval coalition to escort oil tankers and cargo ships through the Strait of Hormuz.

Some countries are considering helping, but others are hesitant or declining for now, so any escort mission will likely involve a limited group of willing partners rather than all U.S. allies.

Countries considering or preparing to helpFrance has said it plans to send naval vessels and help organize a defensive escort mission for commercial ships in the strait.Britain (United Kingdom) is discussing options with allies on how to protect shipping and keep the route open.G7 nations have agreed to look into escort operations to secure the vital oil route.The U.S. has also asked countries like France, the UK, Japan, South Korea and China to consider joining a naval coalition.Countries hesitant or declining so far

Some nations are cautious about sending warships because of the risk of escalating the conflict with Iran.

Japan has ruled out sending naval escorts for now.Australia has said it will not send ships to the region at this time.Several European countries have resisted immediate military involvement, preferring diplomatic solutions.

Pakistan launched its own naval security operation to protect its shipping routes and energy supplies during the crisis.

Global supply tightens

At one point, roughly 150 ships were waiting outside the strait due to security concerns, helping push crude oil prices above $100 per barrel, the highest level in several years.

Pennsylvania gas price trend

Prices across the Commonwealth have risen steadily for more than two weeks:

Feb. 27 — The week opened with Pennsylvania’s average near $3.10 per gallon.Feb. 28 — More stations reported prices above $3.15.March 1 — The statewide average passed $3.20.March 2 — Prices moved toward $3.24.March 3 — The average climbed closer to $3.28.March 4 — Many stations exceeded $3.30.March 5 — The average jumped to about $3.35.March 6 — Pennsylvania’s average moved into the high $3.30s, with some counties above $3.40.March 7 — Weekend figures showed about $3.45.March 8 — Continued volatility in crude oil kept prices rising.March 9 — The statewide average approached $3.55.March 10 — Prices climbed near $3.60.March 11 — The average reached roughly $3.65, the highest of the year at that point.March 12 — The average rose to about $3.66 per gallon.March 13 — Prices increased to around $3.67.March 14 — AAA reported the statewide average at about $3.69.March 15 — The average climbed to approximately $3.70.March 16 — The statewide average reached about $3.72 per gallon.Gas prices in nearby states

Pennsylvania drivers are still paying slightly more than motorists in several neighboring states:

New Jersey: about $3.58 per gallonNew York: about $3.60 per gallonOhio: about $3.47 per gallonDelaware: about $3.43 per gallonNortheast Pennsylvania prices

Northeast Pennsylvania continues to report some of the highest pump prices in the state. Many stations across the region are now charging between $3.72 and $3.85 per gallon, particularly along major highways and in metro areas.

Lowest gas prices in Pennsylvania

Prices still vary widely depending on location and competition between stations. Some of the lowest reported prices remain in western Pennsylvania:

$2.709/gallon — Valero, Dixonville (Indiana County)$2.711/gallon — Sunoco, Aliquippa (Beaver County)$2.712/gallon — 7-Eleven, Pittsburgh area$2.715/gallon — Citgo, Smock (Fayette County)

Analysts say prices could remain elevated as long as oil supply concerns continue and crude oil stays near or above $100 per barrel.