SALT LAKE CITY — Gas prices are already through the roof.

Prices generally rise around Labor Day weekend. However, AAA Utah says this year gas prices could soar even higher.

Hurricane Ida’s impact in the Gulf of Mexico is the main reason why motorists will see a bigger increase at the pump. The storm has forced major pipelines and refineries in the Louisiana and Mississippi areas to either close down or operate at reduced rates.

Power outages from the wrath of Ida could keep pipelines and refineries offline for an even longer period of time.

Currently, the national average of gas is $3.18. In Utah, the average cost is $3.80.

Read more:

• Gas prices on the rise in Utah and across the nation, likely to stay that way
• Drivers can expect more highway patrol troopers and higher gas prices for holiday weekend
• Utah won’t see a spike in gas prices after major US fuel pipeline shutdown, says AAA Utah

Follow @MarkJonesKSL