State Gasoline Supply Slowed, But Not Stopped

Residents shouldn’t worry about spiking gas prices or shortages.

Tennessee Petroleum Council Executive Director Mike Williams said as long as everyone buys and uses gasoline normally, Tennessee should be fine.

“I just hope everyone continues to be responsible citizens and operates the way they normally do and I think everything should be fine,” Williams said.

Hurricane Harvey has closed 11 oil refineries in the Gulf of Mexico, Williams said. That’s caused a disruption in the oil supply. But the gasoline industry has plans for disasters like this to make sure demand is met.

“The pipelines continue to operate, although there’s going to be some slowdowns in deliveries, there’s still gasoline coming to Tennessee and more gas coming from the north,” Williams said.

Williams stressed people should use and buy gasoline normally, not rush to the pumps.