Gas prices rise in Metro Vancouver and more increases could be on the way

Drivers in Metro Vancouver are feeling a familiar pain at the pump on Monday.

Gas price watchers say prices have gone up nearly six cents in the past week. Signs read anywhere between $1.35.9 and $1.42.9 per litre on Monday morning.

McTeague says prices could rise to the $1.60-per-litre range as the summer driving season approaches.

A carbon tax hike goes into effect on April 1 and stations will switch to a more expensive summer blend of gas just days after that.

“This year is a very similar theme that we’ve seen in the past,” McTeague said. “Pacific Northwest refineries in Washington state are really hard-pressed. They’re going through turnaround, maintenance. I’m here not to excuse what they’re doing but the reality is demand is strong and supply is always challenged.”