No doubt that drivers all across the country have noticed a big jump in gasoline prices at the pump this week.

Prices statewide have jumped about 15 cents per gallon since last Friday according to Gasbuddy.com with prices in Brownwood jumping at least that much and more at many stations.

Last Friday in Brownwood, most fuel stations were selling regular unleaded gasoline for $2.39 per gallon while this Friday prices are as high as $2.59 per gallon.

Wholesale gasoline prices and crude oil prices have experienced a sharp rise over the last two weeks contributing to the increases.  A refinery in Port Arthur, TX reported a total loss of power and a fire on Thursday which may have a small short term effect on prices.

On Friday, crude oil and gasoline prices leveled off, but are still near or at record highs for the year.