The Richmond refinery fire is out, but the fallout is just beginning.
The effects could soon be seen at your nearest gas station.
According to petroleum analysts, gas prices could spike 30 cents a gallon within the next few days and 12 cents a gallon for diesel.
That's an increase many drivers say is out of line, but unavoidable.
" I think it's just way too much," said Velma Thomson.
Many drivers are scrambling with ideas to save money at the pumps.
" Travel as little as possible, consolidate trips and do the best we can that way," said Ken Johnson.
Driving less can save you trips to the gas station, but there are things you can do to help you squeeze a few more miles out of every drop of gasoline you put into your car.
" Oil changes believe it or not, that will make a difference," John Costa, local mechanic said.
Also with all the dust in the valley changing your air filter at least once a year can save you money on gas in the long run.
" Air filters dirty, then you're not getting correct amount of air through the system," Costa said.
Turning off the AC and rolling down the windows instead doesn't really do you any good.
" Leaving your windows down doesn't help your mileage cause you got air coming through the back windows; you might as well turn on your AC and get comfortable," Costa said.
