Now Why?

They go up everytime an endangered species dies. Like angels get their wings whenever you ring a bell.

Because we are currently living off of gas reserves; the gas supply is running out. Gas prices will continue to rise because we want and use more gas than what is available.

And if we continue fracking and deep-water drilling for it, we will continue to see more powerful earthquakes. The Earth needs a certain amount of oil in order for the Teutonic Plates to be lubricated and rub easily over each other. If we take out the oil, the plates will screech and catch on each other, resulting in massive earthquakes and volcano eruptions.

This is true; not all scientists want to admit it, but most of them are aware of it. It is more important now than ever before that we start finding other ways to run stuff than relying on everything having to do with gas and petroleum.

Last year, gas and oil companies reported RECORD profits. That's right. Despite the high prices, and the poor economy, apparently, they aren't taking a hit. In fact, they're doing better than ever.

I am putting in another vote for "because they can," with a side chuckle for Dad on Purpose (who may also have it right).

It's because the U.S. and Iran are in a spitting contest with each other right now (according to a news story I read last week) over the Strait of Hormuz (which Iran says it will shut down; apparently most of the Middle East oil is shipped through there). This is in response to the U.S. threatening sanctions against Iran for continuing its nuclear program. There have been a few incidents there in the past few weeks, having the overall effect of worrying the stock market and making the price of crude oil go up.

Potential for big conflicts in Iran and control over a major oil transport route. Markets are always forward looking as to what might impact prices. And it's supply and demand.

Because they can. They make money.

Seriously. Simple as that.

While I'm sure that there are undoubtedly legitimate reasons for certain gas hikes (politics, pipeline sabotage, trade sanctions, etc.), and prices HAVE to be raised... I view gas prices the way I view other business pricing/ practices.

Like Mt. Everest

Because we can.

I could pull a mess of data and give you a reasoned response but I am starting to get the feeling they do it because they can.

Ah, I see the because they can is in the majority. :)

3 day weekend. Seems like it always goes up before a travel weekend. And, because they can...

Locally? Higher taxes. Because they can.

Once again, there is tension in the Middle East.
A few of the non-friendly oil producing companies are threatening to close off access to bodies of water (where the oil ships travel.)
Oil refiners raise their prices on threats of problems or threats of this/ that...even if they don't actually happen.

Politically? Look at what is going on in Iran....the sanctions that are being applied to Iran...however, gas can come from Saudi Arabia as well.

Locally? A 3 day weekend is coming up.