Francine causing long lines at gas stations

As Francine approaches the Louisiana coast, drivers are encountering increasing challenges at the pump, with many gas stations running out of fuel. The rush to prepare for the storm has led to long lines, with residents topping off tanks and filling gas containers for generators in anticipation of power outages.

GasBuddy.com Analyst Patrick De Haan says don’t worry:

“There’s plenty of fuel, supplies are flowing.  The state is is aware of the situation.  They’ve issued some waivers to allow trucks to continue moving on the roads and resupplying those gas stations,” De Haan said.

De Haan says when so many drivers are attempting to fill up will cause delays and says if residents don’t need fuel there is no need to worry about filling up.  De Haan reminds residents of the best time to fill up if they don’t want to deal with empty pumps and long gas lines.

“The best bet is int he morning.  Tanker trucks can move with a lot more ease overnight, and with the hours of service waiver issued now I would expect a lot of stations are trying to refuel their tanks overnight,” he said.

Motorists are urged to remain patient and stay informed as the storm moves closer. De Haan says if drivers see empty pumps, supply is on the way.

“It could be just a few hours between stations if you see a gas pump with a handle over it,” said De Haan.

De Haan says he expects gas prices to continue to decrease over the new few weeks as well.