Retail gasoline prices jump 13 cents across Texas

HOUSTON (AP) — Retail gasoline prices have jumped 13 cents across Texas.

AAA Texas on Thursday reported the average price at the pump statewide was $3.38 per gallon.

In the Rio Grande Valley the average price is $3.35 to $3.37 a gallon.

The association says nationwide gasoline prices increased 7 cents, to settle at an average $3.45.

Texarkana and Dallas have the most expensive gasoline statewide, at $3.40 a gallon. Amarillo has the least expensive in the latest survey, at $3.17 for per gallon.

AAA Texas spokeswoman Sarah Schimmer says Texans are paying about $2 more to fill up than they did last week or about $47 on average for a 14-gallon tank.

Analysts say expected refinery shutdowns in the U.S. and Europe may be playing a role in the climbing cost of gasoline along with escalating crude oil prices given ongoing tensions with Iran.