California Diesel Reaches $7/Gallon as Global Refineries Struggle

Diesel prices in California surged back toward $7 per gallon as wars in Europe and the Middle East disrupt refineries and Strait of Hormuz flows, with CA prices up about 30 cents from a month ago and $1.89 higher than a year ago. Global refinery margins have jumped to roughly $100 per barrel, and about 8% of refining capacity is offline, fueling a broader inflationary squeeze on transportation, farming, and groceries. California remains pricier due to costly imports, a specialized diesel formulation, and state taxes/regulations, and analysts say relief hinges on damaged refineries coming back online and more Middle East exports resuming.