Tampa Bay gas prices plunge 14 cents over the week

State and local gas prices dropped significantly over the week, according to AAA, the Auto Club Group. Gas prices in Florida averaged $2.57 per gallon Monday, down 9 cents over the week, while Tampa Bay prices averaged $2.50 per gallon, down 14 cents since last week.

"Florida drivers are benefiting from low oil prices, which held pretty steady last week thanks to ongoing market sentiment that global oil supply is stronger than demand," Mark Jenkins, AAA spokesman, said. "The state average should continue trickling lower this week, as it makes a likely push below $2.55 per gallon before Friday."

Nationally, gas was $2.74 per gallon Monday.

Contact Malena Carollo at mcarollo@tampabay.com or (727) 892-2249. Follow @malenacarollo.