LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KATV) — Gas prices are climbing again across Arkansas, and AAA says the main driver is higher crude oil costs tied to global uncertainty.

The statewide average price for a gallon of regular unleaded in Arkansas is $3.52, according to the AAA Arkansas Weekend Gas Watch. That’s three cents more than this day last week and 68 cents more per gallon than this day last year.

Among the major metro areas surveyed in Arkansas, Texarkana currently has the highest average at $3.80 per gallon, while Fort Smith has the lowest at $3.25 per gallon.

Nationally, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $4.08, according to AAA Gas Prices. That’s 10 cents more compared to this day last week and 84 cents more per gallon than at this same time last year.

AAA says instability in global energy markets is pushing crude oil prices higher, which is the biggest factor in what drivers pay at the pump. Heightened tensions in the Middle East and concerns about possible supply disruptions through key shipping routes have added upward pressure to crude oil.

While current pump prices are the highest Arkansas drivers have seen since 2022, the statewide average is still below the record high of $4.54 per gallon set on June 14, 2022.

“Drivers across Arkansas are continuing to see gas prices move higher, and the main reason is the rising cost of crude oil,” said AAA spokesperson Nick Chabarria.

“With road trip travel increasing, now is a good time for drivers to build higher fuel costs into their travel budgets. The AAA Gas Cost Calculator can help motorists estimate fuel expenses before they hit the road and make it easier to plan ahead.”

AAA also shared a few fuel-saving tips for drivers looking to stretch each tank a little further:

– Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive driving, since rapid acceleration and hard braking can significantly reduce fuel economy.

– Slow down and follow the speed limit; fuel efficiency typically drops quickly at speeds above 50 mph.

– Keep tires properly inflated, because underinflated tires create more resistance and reduce fuel efficiency.

– Remove unnecessary weight from your vehicle, as extra cargo makes the engine work harder and lowers fuel economy.

– Use the AAA mobile app to find cheaper gas by locating the lowest prices nearby.

– Use AAA tools like TripTik and the AAA Gas Cost Calculator to map your trip and estimate fuel costs.