CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) -
Thirty-three million people are expected Labor Day weekend.
If you're planning on getting away this holiday weekend, you should plan on leaving early.
According to AAA, about 33 million Americans will head out of town this weekend. That number is up 2.9 percent from last year.
They're expected to travel at least 50 miles or more, and will pay a high price to do so.
Labor day gas prices: Find gas prices in your area
"We've had
some unforeseen issues with refinery capacity and also with the hurricane that
just came through the Gulf area, that's also driving those prices up a little
more," says AAA spokesperson Nick Jarmusz.
Gas prices are sky-high this year. The average cost for a gallon of gas nationwide is $3.80. But in Chicago, the average is $4.27.
That's causing many
drivers here in Chicago
to think twice before taking a road trip on this long weekend.
"I'm pretty
conscious about my spending and I drive a lot for work and it's not very
convenient," one local resident says.
For others like the Matta family from Toronto, this price is
something we just have to get used to.
"I remember when it
was much cheaper way back, but now you get used to it and you pay what you have
to drive."
According to Gas Buddy,
the cheapest gas is at $4.02 in Homewood
and the most expensive is $4.79 on the North Side of Chicago.
Is there any relief
for drivers in sight?
"It depends on how
the rest of the hurricane season shakes out. If we have a milder season, we
shouldn't see prices staying this high, they should begin to taper back
down."
But, for those
choosing to stay home, it's for good reason.
Illinois state police are also warning drivers not to drink and drive. They're beefing up patrols this weekend, looking out for drunk drivers and speeders.
