Gas Price Surge Sparks Road Rage Across Canada
A surge in gas prices is igniting frustration and road rage among motorists across Canada as they grapple with significant increases at the pumps on Thursday. The sharp uptick in prices, some soaring as much as 22 cents overnight, is leaving drivers feeling the pinch and prompting concerns about its impact on household budgets.
Data from GasBuddy’s live gas price tracker reveals substantial spikes in gas prices across Ontario, with averages reaching $1.73 per litre by 4 p.m. Eastern Thursday, marking a 10.9-cent increase from the previous day. In southwest Ontario towns like Sarnia, the cost of gasoline surged by a staggering 22.3 cents to $1.79 per litre.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed his frustrations about the sudden gas price hike, describing it as “absolutely disgusting” during an appearance in Oakville, Ont. Analysts attribute the price surge to the switch from winter to summer gasoline blends, as predicted.
Quebec drivers also faced rising prices, with the province’s average cost surpassing $1.80 per litre, according to gas data. Montreal witnessed gas prices soaring to an average of $1.88 per litre, an 8.9-cent hike from Wednesday.
Meanwhile, British Columbia saw gas prices inching towards the $2 per litre mark, rising to an average of $1.95 per litre by 4 p.m. Eastern. Gas prices also saw minor increases in Newfoundland and Labrador and New Brunswick on Thursday.
Experts suggest that the switch from winter to summer gasoline blends contributes to higher production costs, as summer gas must meet stringent environmental regulations. Additionally, geopolitical conflicts and increased demand for summer travel are keeping global crude oil prices elevated, further impacting gas prices.
While Canadians brace for the financial strain caused by rising gas prices, many are hopeful for relief in the coming months. Despite the challenges posed by volatile global markets and geopolitical tensions, Canadians remain resilient in navigating these economic uncertainties.
