Gasoline prices well below national average in East TN and SWVA

According to the latest GasBuddy survey data, average regular gas prices around the Tri-Cities have dropped to $3.66 a gallon. That’s a 14-cent plunge from last week, offering drivers a bit of relief compared to the rest of the country. Nationwide, prices are also trickling down, but the national average still sits significantly higher at $4.10 a gallon. In Southwest Virginia, regular unleaded is averaging a bit more, hovering right around $3.89 a gallon on average. Meanwhile, Tennessee discount spots along West Stone Drive in Kingsport have dipped as low as $3.46. Market analysts credit the sudden dip to seasonal shift dynamics. However, regional diesel prices remain highly elevated due to global supply pressures, holding at a steep $5.75 a gallon locally.