Diesel prices in California have surged to unprecedented levels, with some pumps maxing out their digital displays at $9.999 per gallon. This spike comes amid a worsening global supply crunch, pushing the state’s average diesel price to $7.91 per gallon as of Wednesday, according to GasBuddy data reported on Thursday by Fortune.com.
GasBuddy, a fuel-tracking firm, confirmed that several fueling stations in the San Diego suburb of Serra Mesa displayed the $9.999 price on their pumps. Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, noted that while some stations might show this price to indicate temporary fuel shortages, others are genuinely pricing diesel above $9 per gallon. De Haan also highlighted that the national average for diesel recently surpassed $6 per gallon for the first time ever and could rise to $7 per gallon soon.
The surge in diesel prices reflects broader supply constraints affecting the U.S. and global markets. De Haan emphasized that there are no signs of relief, with conditions likely to worsen. The unprecedented $9.999 price point on pumps signals the severity of the current fuel supply issues and the challenges consumers face amid rising energy costs.
GasBuddy continues to investigate reports of $9.999 diesel pricing at other California locations. De Haan described the initial reports as chilling, marking the first time such pricing is a realistic option. The firm is also exploring whether stations can legally adjust their pump software to accommodate these high prices.