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California only has six weeks left of fuel?!
The US is the…TOP PRODUCER OF OIL and exports 13 million barrels of oil a day!
Something’s not right here…especially give the above as well as the prolonged situation with Iran!
The war with Iran has significantly choked off global oil supplies and constrained vital fuel additives, severely impacting California. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed, crude oil and gasoline prices have surged. Below is the current situation in the state. [1, 2, 3]
Gas Prices & Supply Chain
- Price Surge: California gas prices have surged above $6.00 a gallon, hitting the highest levels since 2023 and sitting roughly 30% to 40% higher than prior to the war. [1, 2, 3]
- Import Reliance: Because California acts as an “energy island” with limited pipeline connections and has recently closed major in-state refineries, it is deeply reliant on foreign waterborne crude and gasoline imports. [1, 2]
- Alkylate Shortages: Alkylates are sought after for the state’s specialized smog-reducing CARB gasoline blend. The conflict has disrupted Asian fuel exports and diverted vital alkylates, squeezing supply. [1, 2]
- Future Shocks: The California Energy Commission expects short-term liquidity through mid-summer, but securing crude and specialized fuel blends will come at a significantly higher cost if the war persists. [1, 2]
Local Impacts & Responses
- Law Enforcement Adjustments: High fuel budgets have forced Southern California agencies (like the LAPD and Pasadena Police) to cut back on cruiser usage and increase bike patrols and drone deployments to curb fuel spending. [1]
- State Action: Governor Gavin Newsom and state regulators are actively monitoring fuel reserves, negotiating long-term supply deals with Asian refiners, and resisting calls to suspend the state gas tax. [1, 2]
Experts do not anticipate actual empty gas stations, as free-market pricing will balance demand, but drivers should expect steep, sustained price pressure at the pump. [1]
If you are planning to travel or commute in the coming weeks, let me know your exact travel dates or commute routes and I can help find the most efficient travel options or provide estimates for the costs.
See the following clip for all the details…
Jimmy Dore, Jimmy Dore SHow, CA, California, oil, gas, gas prices, petroleum, price spikes, Gavin Newsom, Iran war, war, Israel, Trump, Refineries, Donald Trump, exports, Exxon