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Why are Gas Prices in Florida so High?

Nick Humphries via Flickr

A surge in gasoline prices is taking a toll on South Floridians' wallets, and their way of life. AAA's Fuel Gauge Report shows the average price for regular grade gas in Florida is $3.86 a gallon.

At one Pompano Beach station, 47-year-old SUV-owner Tammy White says she goes out less often than she used to just to save money.

"Because the gas it's outrageous", complained White. "It kinda puts you in the mood thinking, 'Oh Gosh. You can't do anything', and there's nothing you can do about it."

Tampa-based petroleum analyst Gregg Laskoski says one reason for the spike is that gas refineries generally don't produce at 100% capacity this time of year. Many refineries have to shut down part of their operations to prepare for the production of a costly summer blend of gasoline.

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"It takes more time to produce that gasoline", Laskoski explained. "It costs more to produce because it has additional additives that allows the gas to burn cleaner during the summer months."

Laskoski says other factors responsible for the pain at the pump are the weak U.S. dollar and unrest in the Middle East. Gas prices nationwide have increased 45¢ per gallon over the last month.