POMPANO BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - The recent pipeline hack on a major artery is fueling frustration for several drivers spanning across several states. Although the supply is plentiful in South Florida, there is some fear of rising gas prices.
Port Everglades officials, however, are imploring South Floridians not to worry, as they are not likely to experience a gas shortage similar to that on the East Coast.
“This is my fourth gas station,” said Beli Sario, who was in need of gas.
However, people still went on the hunt for a full tank of gas.
“I’m actually without gas at the moment,” Sario said.
Floridians were having a hard time fueling up following Friday’s cyberattack on the Colonial Pipeline that shut down operations and caused a major gas shortage across the South and the East Coast.
The thought of the shortage hitting Florida sent people in Miami Gardens scrambling to get a full tank. The long lines even caused some gas stations to run out, like Murphy’s Express.
“All the pumps got a sign on it that says no gas,” said Ernse Dimanche.
The 5,500-mile pipeline delivers about 45% of the fuel consumed on the East Coast. That does not include Florida.
“Our fuel is supplied through Port Everglades, not by the pipeline,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.
Local officials said that problem is not our problem.
“If you need gas, go get gas. If you don’t need gas, just pass the gas on by,” said Miami-Dade Commissioner Oliver Gilbert.
By Wednesday afternoon, the pipeline company said operations have resumed, but will take a few to get back up and running.
In more promising news, tanks were seen loading up with fuel and pulling out of Port Everglades, so hopefully, the long lines like the ones spotted at the Costco in Davie will be short-lived.
“We’ve seen the pictures and videos of people putting gas in garbage bags,” Gilbert said. “First of all, that’s dumb. Like, that’s gonna get you hurt, it’s dangerous. Stop doing that.”
If you suspect any price gouging for gas, you are urged to call the state attorney’s office and police immediately.
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