Gas Prices Top $5 in Some Areas

Gas prices have shot sky-high in some parts of the country, even getting to $5 per gallon in some places.

The sudden rise in gas prices is surprising considering the season, as fewer people drive during the winter months to avoid bad road conditions. This usually results in lower gas prices.

But not this year.

According to AAA, the national average for a gallon of regular gas is $3.73, up nearly five percent from a year ago.

And in Los Angeles, regular unleaded hit $5.09 per gallon.

Here in Sioux Falls, $3.75 seemed to be the common price Tuesday evening, which is higher than Rapid City and the statewide (and national) average. It's up a dime since Saturday and 50 cents in the past month.

The oil companies are blaming this jump on superstorm Sandy, which slashed inventories at refineries.