decidedlyodd

Well, it seems a gas panic has hit North Carolina as well as other areas. Apparently, 90% of our gas comes from pipelines impacted by the hurricane, which has reduced the available gas supply, at least for the next couple of days. Governor Easley has asked people to conserve gas and for state vehicles to put off any long trips (WRAL article). Consequently, people are freaking out and filling their tanks, which of course will only make the problem worse. Tonight while going to the grocery store, I noticed all three of the stations near the intersection of Main and Weaver in Carrboro were full of cars. People were even waiting in line at the Exxon and Citgo. This was at 10:30pm at night… There are rumors flying around that there is no gas in Charlotte, but I haven’t found any news articles verifying that’s the case.

I’ve got a half of a tank, which usually lasts me at least a few weeks, so I’m avoiding the mayhem for now. Prices today were at $2.89 and I’m sure they’ll only go higher as the panic ensues regardless of whatever NC state law says about gouging customers.