Gas Prices Surge Across Michigan Amid Global Conflict

Prices rise over 50 cents per gallon in a single week due to impacts of US-led attacks on Iran

Mar. 14, 2026 at 3:20am

Gas prices in Michigan have skyrocketed in recent weeks, with the average price in the Ann Arbor area reaching $3.64 per gallon. The price hike is largely due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has disrupted global oil supply chains and caused volatility in the crude oil market. Additionally, the seasonal switch from winter to summer blend gasoline has contributed to the price increases.

Why it matters

The surge in gas prices has a significant impact on Michigan residents, who rely heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. Higher fuel costs can strain household budgets and affect the overall economy, as increased expenses for businesses and consumers can lead to reduced spending in other areas.

The details

According to AAA spokesperson Adrienne Woodland, gas prices in Michigan have risen by over 50 cents per gallon in a single week due to the conflict in the Middle East. The closure of the Straits of Hormuz, a critical global oil chokepoint, has put petroleum supply chains at risk, leading to increased market volatility and higher crude oil prices. Additionally, the seasonal switch from winter to summer blend gasoline, which typically occurs in late February or early March, has also contributed to the price increases.

  • Gas prices in Michigan have increased by 34 cents compared to this time last week.
  • Prices are up 71 cents compared to this time last month.
  • Prices are also up 53 cents compared to this time last year.

The players

AAA

A non-profit organization that provides automotive and travel services, including roadside assistance and travel planning.

Adrienne Woodland

A spokesperson for AAA who provided insights on the recent gas price increases in Michigan.

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What they’re saying

“We had already seen a spike here in Michigan, week to week, in gas prices. But once the conflict began and crude oil prices turned just like we've seen, our prices went way up. These are still the highest prices we've seen in Michigan since the summer of 2020.”

— Adrienne Woodland, AAA Spokesperson (wzmq19.com)

“It's not uncommon to see it this time of year, end of February, early March, because that's when refineries begin their switch over from winter blend to summer blend of gasoline.”

— Adrienne Woodland, AAA Spokesperson (wzmq19.com)

What’s next

As the conflict in the Middle East continues to evolve, experts will closely monitor the impact on global oil markets and the resulting effects on gas prices in Michigan and across the United States.

The takeaway

The surge in gas prices in Michigan is a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of global events and their impact on local communities. While the seasonal switch to summer blend gasoline has contributed to the price increases, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has been the primary driver, underscoring the need for energy security and resilience in the face of geopolitical uncertainties.