California leaders report four to six weeks worth of gasoline and diesel supply

California leaders report four to six weeks worth of gasoline and diesel in supply FRESNO, Calif.

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(FOX26) — Californians are facing growing uncertainty at the pump after the state’s last major oil shipment from the Strait of Hormuz arrived in Long Beach on Monday, as leaders warn the state has roughly four to six weeks of fuel supply left under normal conditions.

The shipment was the last to leave the Strait of Hormuz since Iran closed it in February, forcing state officials and refinery operators to find new sources of crude while also trying to keep up with converting it into gasoline to meet consumer demand.

“The closure of all that capacity in California is kind of coming to roost right now because California refineries can't keep up with California demand,” said Ross Allen, a Chevron spokesperson.

Gas prices have continued to climb.

AAA reported the current average price in California is $6.11 a gallon.

The California Energy Commission said refiners are already working to adjust and report the state has a four to six weeks worth of gasoline and diesel in supply.

“We are working closely with refiners and are aware that they are identifying and using alternate routes and sources of crude.

Diesel and gasoline inventory remains sufficient to cover roughly 4–6 weeks of demand under normal operating conditions, assuming no major unplanned outages," a CEC spokesperson said.

“We are seeing gasoline imports improve the first week of May.

If the gasoline imports trend continues, it may help lift other product imports as well.” Allen said California’s reliance on imports leaves it exposed.

“California is in a tough spot because it does import a lot of its products,” Allen said.

“About 20% of its jet fuel and about 25% of its gasoline comes from overseas refineries.” But California is not the only place looking for supply.

Jodie Muller of the Western States Petroleum Association said competition intensifies during shortages.

“In a global shortage, every country is going to look inward first and then California is left bidding for what's left,” Muller said.

Muller said the current situation reflects longer-term vulnerabilities.