When Gas Prices Drop, Traffic Doesn't Stop

Hattiesburg, Ms---

April 8, 2020

COVID-19 has stopped traffic on the highway, but people seem to be piling up on walking trails. Gas prices are down, but so is demand. Many Hattiesburgers are moving mostly to stay fit and keep sane during the pandemic.

Gas prices have dropped significantly in the last few weeks because of low demand and a crude oil price disagreement between Saudi Arabia and Russia. You can read more about the oil trade here.

According to AAA, the national gas price average has reached around $1.91, a $0.48 decrease since last month alone. Prices are estimated to keep declining due to the lack of travel that COVID-19 has forced on the nation.

Some people are filling their gas tanks out of panic, but some aren't buying any at all. Since many Hattiesburg citizens are filing for unemployment, they may not have the money or the need for gas to get to work. Essential employees are listed in MS Executive Order No. 1463.

Meanwhile, walking trails and sidewalks remain open for public use. Parks and pavilions along these routes are closed.

Plenty of Hattiesburg residents have taken to the Long Leaf Trace to find comfort and release during the shelter in place order. Exercise is a great way to relieve built up tension and to destress after being cooped up in the house all day.

While exercise is good for morale, people must remember to stay safe and follow the guidelines for social distancing when they leave their homes. If you choose to go out for a run or a bike ride with your siblings, clean surfaces you come into contact with using a disinfectant. Make sure to stay at least six feet away from people on the roads or walking trails, giving plenty of courtesy space for other people.

Wear a mask, and wash your hands.

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Hannah Houston