Drivers in Ottawa are feeling the ripple effects of the conflict in the Middle East, as gas prices across the capital jumped sharply this weekend. The average price of gasoline rose by about six cents per litre Saturday, bringing the citywide average to roughly $1.52 per liter. Just two weeks ago, prices were sitting closer to $1.33 per litre according to CAA, marking a jump of nearly 19 cents in a short period of time. At gas stations across the city, the sudden increase caught many drivers off guard. “It’s a bit of a shock because last week it was $1.20 something, right, so $0.30 more a litre,” said motorist David Mason. At an Esso on Carling Avenue Saturday morning, the price of gas was sitting at $1.549 per litre, making for a costly trip at the pump. Mason said the increases are striking when compared to what drivers used to experience decades ago. “I’m old enough to remember when gallons went up seven cents and people were shocked,” he says. “Now we’re talking about nearly 30 cents a litre. Other drivers say the jump was surprising, especially compared with the prices they had recently seen online. “I was very surprised,” says Wendy Waserman. “I did a quick search this morning and saw averages around $1.34 or $1.36. When I saw $1.54, I was a bit stunned.” Analysts say the spike is being driven by rising global oil prices, partly tied to the ongoing war in the Middle East and tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route where roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through. “Last week stations were serving fuel for under $1.50. Somewhere in the $1.38, 37 range, but, of course with the strike on Iran and the response by Iran, it has created an inordinate amount of pressure on oil and petroleum products.” McTeague warns prices could climb even higher in the coming days. “I think the price will probably move up another $10 a barrel, pushing toward $100 a barrel by the end of next week,” he says. “Gasoline could go up another 10 to 12 cents a litre.” Some drivers say the rising costs could change how often they get behind the wheel. “Because it’s winter and cold weather, I don’t want to take a chance on the car having less than a quarter tank,” Waserman says. “But I don’t plan on using it very much in the next little while.” Analysts expect another two-cent increase Sunday, and recommend drivers fill up after 6 p.m., when prices often drop, and use gas-tracking apps to find the lowest prices across the city.
