The national average price at the pump for a gallon of diesel broke $1.40 yesterday, the first time it reached that level in 51 weeks, according to the U.S. Dept. of Energy.
The department's Energy Information Administration said the national average hit $1.414, which is 1.8 cents higher than it was last week. Diesel prices soared to $1.473 last September 24 as the U.S. prepared for war in the Middle East.
The price has jumped weekly since mid-August amidst rumors the U.S. will attack Iraq, which could disrupt oil flow.
Drivers in California are paying the highest price at $1.618, which is actually one-fifth of a penny less than they were paying last week. West Coast drivers pay the second-highest price at $1.557, nine-tenth of a cent higher than last week.
