FRESNO, CA (KMJ) Gasoline prices just hit a new high for 2026. According to AAA, the national average climbed to $4.23 a gallon on Wednesday, the highest level since the war with Iran began — and more than 40% higher than late February.
Fresno drivers are currently shelling out $5.89 a gallon which is $1.13 more than a year ago.
Several California counties are even more expensive for drivers with average prices for regular unleaded surging past the $6 mark.
The surge is being driven by rising oil prices after the U.S. and Iran imposed a dual blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for Persian Gulf oil. Brent crude has jumped nearly 25% in just two weeks, now trading at about one‑fourteen a barrel.
The Wall Street Journal reports President Trump has told aides to prepare for a prolonged blockade, as ship traffic through the strait has dropped sharply.
