Gas Prices Hit Lowest Levels in Years Ahead of Memorial Day

AUGUSTA, Ga. — As Memorial Day approaches, nearly 40 million Americans are expected to travel by road. Projections from Gas Buddy indicate the national average price for a gallon of gas will be $3.08 on the holiday, the lowest it has been this time of year since 2021.

Inflation-adjusted, this is the cheapest gas has been since 2003, excluding the COVID-19 pandemic. Alongside affordable gas, the latest Consumer Price Index suggests that renting vehicles and staying in hotels may also be less expensive this year.

The decline in oil prices has been linked to increased production by Saudi Arabia and OPEC, following calls for higher output at the beginning of Donald Trump’s second presidential term. Additionally, energy prices remain low amid concerns that upcoming tariffs could hurt the U.S. and world economies.

In Georgia, officials from the Department of Natural Resources are urging caution as many prepare to enjoy the water this weekend. Thomas Ledford, a game warden, emphasized safety during National Safe Boating Week, reminding everyone to wear life jackets.

“Our number one concern on the lake is everybody being safe,” Ledford said. “If you’re going to be on a boat, make sure it has life jackets for every person on board and other safety equipment.”

The U.S. Coast Guard revealed that 90% of drowning victims in lakes and rivers this year weren’t wearing life jackets. Tragically, this statistic includes Dustin Valencia, a kayaker who drowned last week in Lake Lanier.

Col. Mike England of the Coast Guard said, “If you’re not a good swimmer, that water is not forgiving.” He added that it is vital for boat operators to remain sober, noting that legal limits for alcohol consumption are the same whether driving a car or a boat.

Last year, authorities made 259 arrests for boating under the influence, with 16 arrests reported this year already. In 2023, there were 57 drownings across Georgia, which has jumped to 27 drownings so far this year. Ledford urged, “Keep your life jackets on, swim with a buddy, and follow boating laws.”

Georgia Department of Public Safety officials are also emphasizing safe driving during the holiday weekend, as 15 people died in vehicle crashes in Georgia over Memorial Day 2024. Lt. Col. Kendrick Lowe said, “State troopers and officers will be out in full force… to save lives.”

As families prepare to hit the road and the water this weekend, safety remains a priority, with officials encouraging all to follow rules for a safe and enjoyable holiday.