The average price of gasoline in California has risen four cents per gallon in the past month, according to the latest report from AAA Northern California.

The increase is due to seasonal refinery maintenance and the continuing high price of crude oil – above $80 per barrel, driven by a weak U.S. dollar – according to the report.

“Oil stockpiles are at their highest levels in six months, but pump prices aren’t dropping, thanks in part to a lack of gasoline reserves,” explained AAA Northern California spokesperson Matt Skryja. “This lack of gasoline supply is being attributed to autumn maintenance at oil refineries across the country, which has cut down on how much gas they are producing.”

The Modesto area, which includes Turlock, has seen prices rise above the statewide average, up six cents to an average price of $3.11 per gallon of unleaded gasoline. The local price is below the state average of $3.14 and the Northern California average of $3.17, but above the national average of $2.86.

Statewide, gasoline is an average of 15 cents per gallon higher than a year ago, while nationwide a 20 cent per gallon increase has occurred since November 2009.

The most expensive gasoline in the nation can be found in Wailuku, Hawaii, at $3.92 per gallon, while Pine Bluff, Arkansas, has the least expensive gasoline at $2.61.

To contact Alex Cantatore, e-mail acantatore@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2005.