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Local drivers brace for more pain at the pump

ATLANTA — Gas prices are rising again, and they even jumped another 5 cents overnight.

According to AAA, prices in Georgia are currently averaging out to about $3.63. That’s about 30 cents higher than a month ago and about 20 cents higher than last week.

In Cobb County on Sunday, Channel 2’s Rachel Stockman saw prices at about $3.67, and at $3.69 just off Howell Mill Road in Atlanta.

“Normally it is $75 and it was $90 when I filled up. Then I was like, 'What happened?'” said customer Pam Tyner.

Experts told Stockman it is unusual for prices to increase this time of year. Experts blame rising oil prices and also the fact that a number of refineries have shut down or are going to shut down for maintenance.

“I left out of town and gas was one price, and I came back two weeks later, I’m paying 30 cents more a gallon,” said Marietta resident William Dunbar.

Economists said high prices mean people will be spending less on other goods.

Al Smith said it is now something he thinks about every week.

“It’s part of everyday life now. You have to budget for it. You didn't use to have to budget for it,” Smith said.

An expert told Stockman he expects the rising prices to level off.

Stockman will have details on that part of the story on Channel 2 Action News at 6.

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