GasBuddy analyst: Drivers should consider changing Labor Day plans

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — 

A senior petroleum analyst with GasBuddy.com predicts there could be stations that run out of gasoline this Labor Day weekend, and says drivers should consider changing their travel plans.

This comes after refineries and a section of the Colonial Pipeline from Texas were shut down due to Hurricane Harvey.

Patrick DeHaan of GasBuddy.com said drivers should consider staying home or risk traveling out-of-state where gas stations could run dry. 

DeHaan recalled the shortage following a pipeline explosion a year ago that shut down the pipeline.

“It’s very different this time, and there is is the growing and realistic possibility that, especially if you’re staying in the Southeast or Mid-Atlantic, there’s not going to be enough gasoline,” he said.

Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency for North Carolina on Thursday afternoon, allowing him to ease restrictions on gas hauled into the state and try to avoid a gas shortage over the Labor Day weekend.

DeHaan warned if people start to panic and fill up their cars when it's not needed that it will impact prices and supply for those who need the gas.

News 13 saw rising prices at stations across Asheville on Thursday, Aug. 31. The Shell on Merrimon Avenue was selling a gallon of regular unleaded for $2.39. According to AAA that is currently the average price in Asheville -- up from $2.26 one week ago. The En Mark on Tunnel Road was selling a gallon for $2.44 if you had a club card. The Ingles on Tunnel Road was selling a gallon of unleaded for $2.39 on Thursday.

“I heard the pipeline is going to close or have a shortfall,” said Carrie Allen, who was filling up her mini-van. "I travel a lot for my job, so, I’m filling up.”

Allen is the elementary schools director of Asheville schools. She’s also made a decision about her Labor Day plans.

“I was just on the phone with my mom and said I will be hunkering down this weekend in Asheville. It will be a stay-cation,” Allen said.

On Thursday, crews said they estimate the Colonial Pipeline will return to service on Sunday, "following an evaluation of our infrastructure and successful execution of our start up plan."