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Alabama Pipeline Leak Sparks East Coast Gasoline Shortages and Price Hikes

A pipeline leak in Alabama is causing gasoline shortages and price hikes along the East Coast. Emergency declarations and regulatory waivers aim to keep supplies steady.

As we can see in the image there is a water pipe.
As we can see in the image there is a water pipe.

Alabama Pipeline Leak Sparks East Coast Gasoline Shortages and Price Hikes

A pipeline leak in Alabama has sparked concerns of gasoline shortages and price hikes along the East Coast of the United States. The incident, which began on September 9, has led to the closure of Colonial Pipeline Co.'s main gasoline shipping route, affecting around 40 percent of the gas consumed along the I-95 corridor.

The leak, estimated at 6,000 barrels, has prompted governors of Alabama, Georgia, and North Carolina to issue emergency declarations. These declarations temporarily suspend regulations on fuel-carrying drivers' hours of service to ensure adequate supply. The Environmental Protection Agency has also stepped in, issuing a brief waiver on Clean Air Act requirements to prevent disruption to consumers.

The incident is expected to impact gasoline prices, with increases ranging from 5 to 20 cents per gallon. As of Friday, the national average stands at $2.18 per gallon. The first states projected to face shortages are Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Despite these concerns, the leak is not considered a threat to the public.

The pipeline leak in Alabama has raised alarms about gasoline shortages and price increases along the East Coast. Authorities are taking steps to mitigate these issues, with emergency declarations and regulatory waivers. Consumers are advised to monitor local gasoline stations for updates and plan their fuel purchases accordingly.

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