ON-AIR SEGMENT: AAA Spokesperson Patti Artessa joins North Country News Thursday, June 18 for latest gas, oil market update

On Thursday, June 18, 2026, AAA Spokesperson, Patti Artessa, joined North Country News and provided another update pertaining to the latest gas prices and oil markets.

According to the AAA, the national average for a gallon of regular has been falling for the last few weeks, delivering some relief to drivers during the busy summer travel season.

Since May 21, the national average has dropped from $4.56 to $4.12, and the AAA says that is thanks to crude oil prices remaining below $100 per-barrel.

"Gas prices typically peak around this time of year, but uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz makes this year more unpredictable," the AAA said. 

Pump prices still remain at heights not witnessed since four-years-ago, but as of this report, the national average still remains far from the record set on June 11, 2022, of $5 per gallon.

Listen to our latest on-air segment with Artessa for more details and insight:

AAA image.