Gas prices hit the $4 mark in northeast Ohio

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio - Unleaded gas prices have soared to $4.05 a gallon at a station in Cleveland Heights and prices at other stations aren't far behind.

"I think it's outrageous," Cleveland Heights resident Rosemary Pierce said.

Petroleum dealers say we can blame the price hike on Hurricane Isaac.

"They closed three major refineries in Louisiana," said Pat LaVecchia, vice-president of the Associated Food and Petroleum Dealers. "They have to close them down because of the water."

LeVecchia said the shutdowns raised wholesale prices 23 to 33 cents a gallon Tuesday morning.  He was expecting additional increases Tuesday night and Wednesday.

However, he's predicting those refineries could be up and running again by Friday or Saturday, which would bring prices back down.

"The supply will pick up and there'll be more fuel," LaVecchia said. "When there's more fuel, the price is lower."

Although Pierce drives a car, she rides her bike a lot. She has a trailer attached to transport her groceries and even her children. She doesn't do it because of high gas prices, however, "I'm very glad I have that option," she said.