FEB 20/2012 GAS PRICES JUMPING

(Southeast Missouri) Gas prices are at their highest ever for this time of year.

Prices already are up 25 cents since January 1st, at $3.53 a gallon.

Experts say the cost for fuel could be a record $4.25 per gallon by late April.

The uptick in gas prices follows a hike in the price of oil.

Higher gas prices could hurt consumer spending and slow recent improvements in the U.S. economy.

Locally, gas prices in Farmington are as low as $3.19. Elsewhere, prices in Potosi are as low as $3.22, Perryville $3.25, Festus $3.34

For gas prices in your area, please visit our Gas Price Tracker.