AUSTIN, Texas — Gas prices are surging in Austin and across the country. The rapid increase has drivers paying almost $0.50 more for a gallon of regular gas since last week.

CBS Austin checked prices at gas stations across Austin on Monday, and the price seen repeatedly was $3.19 a gallon. One of the lowest prices listed on gasbuddy.com was $2.69 a gallon at Costco in Liberty Hill. Other deals were found outside of Austin in Elgin, Spicewood, and San Marcos.

Nick Kondylas says it has been several years since gas prices spiked this high.

“These gas prices have hit me hard, they have hit me hard,” said Kondylas.

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Normally, it costs Kondylas about $15 to fill up the tank on his Harley-Davidson. On Monday, the price topped $20.

“$5 a fill-up matters,” said CBS Austin Reporter Bettie Cross.

“Exactly. It adds up, it adds up for sure,” said Kondylas.

Across Texas, AAA says the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline is $3.12.

“That price is $0.49 higher than a week ago, and it is $0.75 higher than a month ago at this time,” said Doug Shupe with AAA Texas.

Gas prices typically go up in the spring with the switchover to the more expensive summer-blend fuel, but experts say this surge is tied directly to the U.S. strikes on Iran and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

“When we have a situation that has blocked off 20% supply of what the globe needs on a daily basis for crude oil, the rest of that 80% is going to have an increase in price point,” said Matt McClain with Gas Buddy.

“Break it down for our viewers, what can they expect in the next week or two in terms of price increases?” said Cross.

“$0.20 to $0.50 a gallon for regular unleaded gasoline. That is what we are looking at this week across the country with diesel up $0.35 to $0.75 a gallon,” said McClain.

Kondylas says his plan is to ride his motorcycle a little easier this month and try to burn less fuel on each trip.

“It is expensive. It is expensive. I am feeling it. I am feeling the pain,” said Kondylas.

AAA says to save as much gas as possible, make sure vehicle tires are properly inflated, and lighten the load. Take out golf clubs, and anything stored in backseats or trunks that you rarely need.