Severe fuel shortage grips parts of US southeast

… The effects on motorists have been dramatic. Most service stations in Atlanta are out of gas, with plastic bags placed over the pumps or signs saying “out”.

As a result, drivers are cruising the city hunting for gas — often with a fuel meter needle hovering close to empty. When they find gas, it’s often above $4 a gallon.


Traffic is lighter on the city’s streets and highways as some residents share rides and limit their journeys.

Lines and elaborate queuing systems have developed at gas stations on days when oil companies deliver fuel. Motorists report showing up at gas stations before dawn to beat the line only to find dozens of cars ahead of them.

“It’s been very tough,” said Rhonda Forrest, 45, who said she slipped out of work on Monday to fill up her tank when she learned that a gas station in the city’s upmarket Buckhead district was open.

The shortage has also had a psychological impact. Like many U.S. cities, Atlanta is car dependent and residents say they had until now taken refueling for granted.

Reuters