The cost of fuel in the area shot up about 33 cents in the last four weeks. This is the time of year when gas prices begin to rise but the sudden jolt at the pumps is hard for many people.

"It's disturbing to me when they hike prices unexpectedly. you see very predictable increases come spring, at the end of summer, sometime it makes it difficult to manage finances," said Mike Shelton, Harrisonburg resident.

Exxon mobile posted record profits for 2006 of 39 billion dollars due to high prices.

"I think it's unnecessary, first of the year when the petroleum companies boasted a profit margin of billions of dollars, I don't think it is necessary for customers to absorb additional increase in gas prices." said Harrisonburg Sandra Gee.

According to AAA, during the spring, refineries switch their winter blends to summer blends, which are more environmentally friendly and more expensive to produce.

The annual increase in prices at the pump is also attributed to a rise in demand.

The cost of gas is making it even more difficult for college students.
"It's hard, I only get to go home for the weekend, I was kinda debating whether to go home or not because it's so absurd right now, and it's kind of inconvenient, it stormed right up right before spring break." said Stephanie Ganapolis, a James Madison University student.