Gas prices on the rise ahead of Isaac

Oil companies have withdrawn offshore workers and cut oil and gas production in the Gulf of Mexico. The shutdown means gas prices will only go higher.

Experts predict prices could go up by 50 cents a gallon because of the storm. The national average has already jumped 7 cents over the past two weeks.

According the Lundberg survey of fuel prices, a gallon of regular is $3.76. AAA of Alabama says the average in Birmingham is $3.60 a gallon.

Alabama Attorney General Luther Strange said Tuesday that his office is on watch for any price gouging in the wake of Hurricane Isaac.

Earlier this week, Gov. Bentley declared a state of emergency, which triggers the state's price gouging law. It makes it illegal for businesses to dramatically increase prices on services and products like motel rooms, food, batteries or gas.

If you suspect a business is price gouging, you can contact the Attorney General's office at 1-800-392-5658.

Copyright 2012 WBRC. All rights reserved.