Inflation, Food Shortage, and Gas Crisis: Will it Get Worse?
Brace yourself because it doesn’t look like life is going to go back to normal anytime soon. Inflation is still showing signs of increasing, although at a slower pace, we are seeing some food shortages, and now we are running out of gas in certain areas. When it comes to being a prepper, it’s important to know what’s going on around you so you can better prepare yourself for what’s coming. Today, we’re going to talk about inflation and shortages that we see coming our way, and how you can start preparing today!
What is Inflation?
Inflation is when prices rise and decrease the buying power of a dollar. It’s not just higher prices for one specific item. Instead, it’s a general increase in prices across the board. This includes housing costs, food prices, gas prices, and prices for buying building supplies like wood, steel, etc. The cost of some lumber products to build a home, garage, or whatever has gone up 300% over the past few years.
You may wonder why lumber has gone up in price so much over the past few years. Of course, the pandemic caused some shortages of labor, transporting costs, etc., but a sure reason was the lower interest rates on mortgages for so long. So many people were trying to get into a home or upsize while rates were at historically low levels. I have seen people downsizing to smaller homes for fear of future expenses. Why on earth would anyone want a huge mortgage payment if gas prices are rising, utilities are through the roof, and food prices are escalating out of control?
Although lumber prices have stabilized, building a new home may become out of reach for most families. It’s the supply and demand game, less lumber, less building supplies, the higher the cost. And it’s not just Utah, it’s everywhere.
Inflation, in many cases, can be a signal of a healthy economy. A moderate inflation rate encourages you to spend or invest your money today instead of saving it, thus improving the economy as spending creates jobs and personal income levels.
However, if inflation rises dramatically and gets out of hand, it can become destructive to any economy. That is particularly true for those on a fixed income. Think about Venezuela, where its inflation rate hit over 1,000,000% over a few years, causing the economy to topple.
Currently, our inflation rate is down to about 2.6% – 2.7% which is lower than it was last year! The question now becomes, will it rise out of control based on recent natural disasters, particularly in the Southeast?
There is a Food Shortage and Gas Crisis in Some States
In states like Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas, the two recent hurricanes have disrupted a number of industries that we’ll discuss below. Right now, the main issue is supply chain disruptions due to flooding, washed-out roads, challenges of labor shortages, and commodities being unavailable.
We have friends in North Florida who couldn’t get to the grocery store due to gas unavailability. When they finally did get to the store, the shelves were basically empty. We all take having staple foods in our pantry for granted, so when they aren’t available we experience a true food crisis.
Our economy works by having a steady balance. When one thing flips the scales, everything kind of goes into chaos. With food shortages in a particular location or food product type, we see food inflation and a food price crisis.
The basic reason we are seeing shortages and inflation in the Southeast is because of supply and demand changes with all the storm-related disruptions! Most of the time, we have a steady supply of items and it meets the demand of the people. However, when a crisis happens like severe storms, some things aren’t being produced or can’t be delivered to meet the demand. In this situation, commodity prices like food and gas go up in response.
What Are You Paying for Gas Today?
I would love to hear what you are paying for gasoline in your city or state. I’m in Northern Utah, and today the cost is between $3.35 and $3.43 a gallon. If you have time please let me know what city or state you live in and tell us what you are paying.
I’ve been reading that prices have stabilized from the highs of the summer. I’ve also read that with the turmoil in the middle east countries and the war in Ukraine, the prices are primed to go up. The U.S. is a primary supplier of auto and air fuel on a global basis, but there are limits to what can be supplied. If world events start restricting fuel supplied by other countries, pricing is bound to go up.
What Shortages Do We Have?
Chicken and Beef Shortages
We have so many shortages popping up across the country as unexpected events take place. Just this week, it was reported that 1.8 million chickens were destroyed in Cache Valley, Utah based on the birds catching the avian bird flu. Poultry prices are also under pressure because of the loss of poultry farms from hurricanes Helene and Milton, particularly in Georgia. Utah News Report
Beef will become a short-supply product due to all the livestock acreage in the Southeast being flooded, many animals being lost, and production and processing plants being heavily damaged or destroyed. Tyson mentioned that, thankfully, they were not hit as hard as they anticipated and they were still processing meat products, although at a slower pace.
Peanuts, Pecans, and Peanut Butter
Because of the catastrophic weather from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, there will be a shortage and possibly higher prices. We know the holidays are coming, and we must stock up and freeze the items for the longest shelf life. I love pecan pie, cream cheese dips with pecans, and desserts I make.
The pecan trees are prevalent in the Southeast. The U.S. is one of the largest producers of pecans in the global economy. Many of the pecan trees are at least a hundred years old, and they have been destroyed due to flooding and heavy winds from the hurricanes. It is estimated that close to 75% of pecan-producing land has been put out of production right when harvesting is in process. Augusta Georgia Chronicle, I quote, “Experts now believe Helene damaged about one-third of the state’s pecan production area. An estimated 75%, or more than 36 million pounds, of this year’s crop in the storm-affected region has been lost”.
The world produces 45 million metric tons of peanuts annually from China, Nigeria, India, Sudan, Nigel, Argentina, Burma, and the U.S. The U.S. is 4th largest producer after China, India and Nigeria. Our peanut farmers were drastically affected by the recent storms. Plan on spending more for your roasted peanuts and peanut butter in the coming months.
Cotton Shortage
For over a century, the Southern States have been the key location for cotton plantations and fabric producers. Cotton growers in Georgia and the Carolinas have been especially hard hit by the storms. We can expect to see many of our cotton-based products in shorter supply and at higher prices.
Citrus Crops
Florida is known for their oranges and other citrus fruits. Thousands of acres of orange groves were heavily damaged or destroyed, prompting a reduction in fruit and related juices over the coming months. The USDA is in the process of visiting the citrus growers to see how the government can provide support as they try to get back on their feet.
The Southeast is also known for its apple production. Many growers support the U-Pick industry where consumers can visit the farms and pick their own fruit at a discounted price. How fun to go and pick fresh fruit for your family! Many of these U-Pick farms are closed and will struggle to reopen by spring or summer.
There are other crops that have been affected, including corn, apples, and soybeans. There are also a number of trout farms that have been disrupted, prompting an increase in prices the next time you ask for fresh trout at your local fish market or restaurant.
Christmas Trees
North Carolina supplies about 20% of the fresh-cut Christmas trees in the USA. Many of those tree farms were in the path of the recent storms, and the supply of trees was significantly reduced.
Gas Shortage
Fill up those cars! We are NOT out of gas! As mentioned above, there is not technically a shortage of crude oil or gasoline throughout the country right now. One problem has been that there are not enough tanker truck drivers to deliver the gas to stations that are in short supply. There is a driver shortage that may take a while to overcome! When we can’t get gas to the stations, gas prices rise because the demand is higher than what is being shipped.
Medical Supplies
Many hospital patients need dialysis and IV fluids. Baxter International, Inc. manufactures many of the products the U.S. relies on. The storms severely disrupted their production facilities, and the loss of production capacity could adversely affect those needing dialysis and IV fluids.
Metals Shortage
As many countries, including the U.S., switch to green energy, the demand for copper, lithium, nickel, and cobalt is going up. We didn’t use as many of these rare earth elements before, so we were not prepared with enough supply.
Rubber Shortages
Rubber shortages can also impact tire production. So, if you need new tires, you may want to get them now.
Inflation, Food Shortage, Gas Crisis…Will it Get Worse?
As you ponder the points presented in this post, all that can be said is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Yes, it could get worse, but it could also get better. The truth is we can only control some things as a country. Natural disasters happen, and often unexpectedly. We all need to put together our emergency plans and then follow through to implement that plan.
Other Posts to Read
As preppers, we just need to keep doing what we do: keep prepping and being diligent. If you need more insight on what to prep or how to prep, check out my other posts below!
- Foods With the Longest Shelf Life
- How to Conserve Water in an Emergency
- The Ultimate Prepping List
- Why You Need to Learn to Grow Your Own Food
Final Word
With all of this being said, my best advice is to just keep prepping as you always have. Do not panic buy, but be prepared. We made it through the lockdowns in years past, and we will make it through the challenges brought on by severe weather as well! May God Bless this world.
Copyright Images: Costco Gas AdobeStock_301413718_Editorial_Use_Only by Andriy Blokhin, Gas Out of Service AdobeStock_101117577 by Paulvelgos
Gas CB prices in California are over $4 a gallon right now
Hi Robin, my daughter lives in Orange, CA., and told me gas is $4.76 today. Thank you for sharing your cost! Stay safe, Linda
I live in Biloxi,Mississippi and gas prices range from $2.46-$2.61 for regular unleaded gas.
Hi Judy, thank you for sharing your gas prices in Biloxi, Mississippi. I have never been there, I realize I need to get out and take a a few road trips. Linda
The fuel thing is why we prepare because things happen. It’s not about the apocalypse it’s about life.
$2.47-2.80 gl for gas here but we aren’t part of it.
IMO things will get worse. I’d look for the Carter administration days on inflation and fuel shortages.
I’ll not jump into all the reasons because it’s long and drawn out but anyone paying attention knows at least some of them.
I also believe it’ll get better eventually. If not look for Venezuela with much more gun violence here.
I don’t want it nor wish it contrary to popular belief of those in preparedness. I enjoy the finer things of life like my recliner and AC.
Hi Matt, the AC, and the recliner! Life is good! I have my garden to give me joy and relaxation. I remember the Carter administration, oh my gosh. Mark and I took the kids to Disneyland in California and cars were lined up to get gas. THEN the gas was gone for miles. So ridiculous. Stay safe, Linda
Hi Linda I’m in Lincoln Nebraska our average for regular gas $ 2.84
Hi Lyra, thanks for the heads up on the cost in Nebraska! I have a feeling it may go up. Be safe, Linda
Gas in Stephenville Texas today 2.59-2.89
I’m not the only one who sees it
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/jimmy-carter-biden-crises-1970s
Hi Matt, oh my gosh, you nailed it with this link! I can still remember driving to Disneyland with kids, praying we would get gas for the Volkswagon we were driving. I was young and naive back then. NOT NOW! I was too young to question the shortage, then we had a sugar shortage. I was deep into canning food for family and needed the sugar. God help us, we must be prepared. Linda
Gas prices in Woodland Park, CO, the last I checked was $2.89 a gallon where I normally shop. Haven’t been by there in several days due to the snow we just got. Hoping to get out today.
About what is going on right now. I heard yesterday that it’s possible that different parts of the world are testing Biden on how he addresses things. Also said that it’s very possible that the grid might be the next target. Not saying this could happen any time soon, but it looks like others are thinking it’s possible. I’m not near as prepared as I’d like to be, so this bothered me a lot.
Hi Pam, I totally agree with you, the power grid will come down, when? None of us know. Our country is so vulnerable and our infrastructure is antiquated. $2.89, thanks for sharing. When you said snow, I nearly choked. WOW, it’s over 90 degrees here in Southern Utah. Stay safe, Linda
I was at the gas station today. Gas is up to $2.93 today. What is really odd, gas is less than in the Springs. I’m in the mountains and it’s always higher up here. Go figure. And, yes. I got 4 inches of heavy wet snow between Sunday evening and Tues morning. No. I’m not happy with it. Totally over snow this year.
I am lucky to have a wood cook stove. When shit hits the fan (forgive my language but at 74 I don’t worry about the niceties these days). I actually have several wood stoves and if it gets cold as it is supped to here with snow by Nov. 1 in New Mexico I will put one in the kitchen for cooking and one to heat the house. Will set my living room up so all 5 of us can be warm and my son can close out his trailer and can come and stay at the house
Hi Jackie, you are blessed to have several wood stoves. It’s a great feeling knowing you can cook and stay warm at the same time. I love it. Linda
Linda,
You hit the nail on the head with this one. I have been keeping up with many information sources and it IS going to get worse. One trucking company here in Texas was offering a driver salary of $15,000 per WEEK with no takers. You quoted some inflation percentages that are what the government is stating. The real percentages are much, much higher.
Some lumber prices have more than tripled in the last few months and plywood has quadrupled in the last year. And, the quality is awful. Mostly what is available is low grade wood. Can’t find anything that is furniture quality. I had several planned wood-working projects that I have just canceled because I would have to use extremely inferior quality wood.
Here in Central Texas, we have not had any significant food shortages yet, if one is willing to pay the prices.
And, as far as fuel, we have had no shortages yet, and I paid $2.59 per gallon for regular gasoline yesterday. Premium at most stations is in the $3.09 to $3.29 range. Luckily, I only use premium in my motorcycle. And, it will run on regular but gets slightly better performance and fuel mileage on premium.
But, we have only seen the very tip of the iceberg so far. From all that I see and hear in my sources we had better get ready because, to use my Texas twang, we ain’t seen nothing yet!!!!
Any of you folks who read this, Linda was her usual composed self in the post above, but to use a Texas term, we are fixin’ to be in for a wild ride and I fear that there is no return to our previous NORMAL.
So, tighten the cinch and hold on tight!!!!
Hi Harry, you nailed it. The percentages are much much higher. That’s crazy $15,000 a week and no takers, wow, wow, wow! I agree we have only seen the tip of the iceberg. I LOVE your Texas twang, by the way. Mark and I went to Salt Lake City to see some of our kids and grandkids for Mother’s Day. Before the pandemic, we had thought about building a home on our daughter’s property, but the price of supplies are out of sight. We will never see normal again, amen. Hold on for the ride it’s going to be very very rocky, indeed. Stay safe, Linda
That trucking company thing was a lie.
It goes along with if it sounds to good to be true then it probably is
Yes, the news(?) media played that up. What’s new, huh?
The number was close, but it turns out that it was for owner/operators rather than just drivers. But, even so, it is fact that there is a shortage of drivers as well as owner/operators. And, that is no lie. And, it will lead to shortages at retail since virtually everything is trucked at some point along the line between manufacture and consumer. There are so many folks out there living in oblivion thinking everything is just fine. So, perhaps it is time for some stretch of the truth to wake them up. I just don’t know what it will take to do that besides some grand sensationalism.
Yes sir
They forget as soon as it’s done though. The only thing I think that’ll make an impact on most is if they run outta dope.
When I saw that ad I told the wife I was going back into it for 6 months lol. I used to have a A with endorsements
I live on the Space Coast of Florida, about 10 minutes South of the “Rocket Ranch – KSC”. Gas prices yesterday were around $2.79/gal. This morning it’s $2.90+/gal……..IF you can find it. Thanks to the Cyberattack on the oil pipeline, everyone is in freakout mode. Multiple gas station are out of gas.
I’m glad I filled my vehicles up yesterday plus several 5 gallon tanks. I’m a prepper, I can see the crapstorm building…..buckle up gang……it’s gonna get ugly.
Hi FLAPrepper1, you are so right, glad you got the gas you needed. It is indeed going to get ugly. Stay safe, Linda
I live in Brigham City and we just paid 3.23 per gallon.
Hi Debbie, oh I love Brigham City! Thanks for the update on gas prices. Yours are close to our Southern Utah prices. Stay safe, Linda
Going to the doctors yesterday I noticed gas prices ranged from gas station to station for regular, $3.89 to $4.29. I’m in Orange County, California, near Disneyland. We do have higher state taxes on our gas than any other state. Another problem is the same cargo tankers have been lined up in the Long Beach harbor for over a year now. There are so many it’s crazy, and they aren’t unloading.
Hi Mamapeck, cargo tankers lined up for a year, yikes! My daughter lives near your area. Thanks for the gas update! Stay safe, Linda
Gas price in Polson, Montana is 2.78 a gal. as of yesterday.
Hi Diane, thanks for the update in Montana! Montana is beautiful! Stay safe,Linda
Linda, premium gasoline is $3.07 here in Kingman at our local Smith’s (Kroger) grocery. I only use premium because the higher octane gives me better mileage. I also get gasoline credits for shopping there which usually knocks the price down by .10 to .30 per gallon. I also have 50 gallons stored in 5-gallon containers treated with Pri-G for long term storage. I bought that fuel when premium was $2.09 last year.
Re inflation: Chicken and beef shortages and higher prices will continue for a year or two at least. Many of these meat supply problems stem from the Derecho last year that caused ranchers to slaughter their animals because they couldn’t afford to feed them.
The traditional way to fight inflation is to keep interest rates on loans low. This usually works, but when the country is printing trillions of value free dollars in a dim-witted attempt to prop up the economy (Venezuela and Argentina most recently, Zimbabwe and the Weimar Republic in the past) inflationary pressures are inescapable. That is the road we are on, and our leaders, both Democrat and Republican are at fault. It will get worse before it gets better. At least no one is suggesting a repeat of the Carter Administration’s disastrous price freezes.
The upshot? There has NEVER been a better time to be prepared.
Hi Ray, you are so right, “There has NEVER been a better time to be prepared”. Thanks for the update on gas in your area. I love those discounts at the grocery stores we can use when we buy gas! The Carter administration, yikes, bad memories! LOL! Stay safe, Linda
Hi Linda,
Gas prices in Palmerton, Pa are between $2.89 and $3.05
Hi Annette, thank you for the update! I love your state!! I have been there twice, my favorite place for a drive! Stay safe, Linda
Gas $2.85 gallon in Melbourne, Fl. It was just $2.50 last week.
Hi Shawn, wow, that’s a big jump! I need to go get gas today, I hate to see what the price has gone today. Thanks for the update! Linda
Morning Linda! Here in Reno, NV gas prices at Costco are $3.59 a gallon. I haven’t gone out and about lately (too engrossed in my latest quilt project) but I haven’t heard of any gas shortages or closed pumps. I have noticed odd things, here and there, that aren’t at the grocery store. I can’t recall specifically but it’s enough that I noticed I wasn’t finding several items I wanted.
Back in March, my husband and I ordered a new couch and an Amish-made dining room set from a fine furniture store. I was told it would be 10-12 weeks for the couch; 14-16 for the dining room set. I called to check on the couch and lo! and behold, it’s now August at least due to the fact they can’t get the materials to make the couch. The Amish are having a hard time getting their wood, too. I can’t stand the crap, imitation-wood furniture places like RC Willey and Ashley, etc. have so I wanted quality. I’m willing to wait for the Amish-made furniture. Prices for housing in Northern Nevada are through the roof. It’s been this way for several years and it’s certainly not going to get better anytime soon, especially with our idiot governor who follows Newsome like a puppet.
We’ve been infected with all the California people moving here and bringing their politics, ideas, rule and regulations, etc. We’ve seriously considered moving but our home is paid for and we can’t afford the new prices … they’re skyrocketing all over the place! We’ve customized our home for our old age (which is fast approaching!) and I can’t bear the thought of having to pack up all our stuff we’ve accumulated over a life-time. I’d miss the gkids and ggkids too much, too. I remember gas prices at 19c a gallon, then shooting up to 51c a gallon practically overnight. I remember houses costing $30,000, and I definitely remember the Carter Administration. I’m afraid history is definitely going to be repeating itself here shortly. We’re as prepared as we can be but unless you’re rich, it’s going to be tough.
Hi Robbie, please send me a picture of the quilt when you finish it! Our first home cost $18,500 back in 1970. The interest rate was 7.75%. Boy, have things changed for sure! I would rather buy right the first time over having a cheap fall apart dining set. We need new couches but it’s not in the budget this year. It sounds like gas is getting higher in Nevada. Please send me pictures of the couch an the dining set, I love seeing stuff like that! Stay safe! Linda
Robbie, a comment on Californians bringing their politics, ideas, rules and regulations to Reno. I live on Oahu, Hawaii. People move here for the Aloha spirit and the beauty of our islands and because they are not happy with their state’s rules etc. Those of us born and raised in Hawaii often wonder why they moved here when they start trying to change things to the way they had it in their previous location. Ahhh, one of the many things that make you go hmmm. Phew, got that off my chest.
Re gas prices, yesterday Costco charged $3.35 per gallon for regular gas. Other location were charging anywhere from $3.79 to $3.99 per gallon. I have to say I was shocked to see that our prices were actually lower than some locations on the mainland.
Linda, thank you for the forum. I enjoy reading the comments and learning from your followers.
Aloha,
Carol
p.s. I bought your book yesterday. Can’t wait till I receive it.
Hi Carol, oh thank you for buying my book!! I would love to move to Hawaii, that’s my daughter’s dream when she retires with her husband. That won’t be for 20 years or so. Interesting comment people are moving to Hawaii and want to change things. Hmmm, not good. LOL! Thanks for the update on the gas prices. I’m glad you like our comments, having a forum-type group like ours is a blessing. We learn from one another. Stay safe! I love hearing Aloha! Linda
The cheapest gas station in my town sells gas for $2.73 a gallon. The more expensive ones sell for 2.99. My daughter had a terrible time buying gas this morning! We live in south Florida.
Hi Lizzy, I have a friend in Florida that had to go to several gas stations!! Thanks for the update! Stay safe, Linda
Bellingham WA Costco 3.149 for 87 octane.
Hi Suzie, wow, that doesn’t sound too bad yet! Thanks for the update!! Stay safe, Linda
In Northern Wisconsin the regular gas price today is $2.89. Last year this time the gas price was about $1.02. The gas for our house has gone from $1.04 to $1.89 a gallon as well.
Grocery prices have skyrocketed lately. The garden is going in this weekend and I am thankful to have many farm animals to help…but their food prices are going up too.
Hi Jerilea, oh my gosh, the food for prices for your animals are going up, dang! Your gas for the regular gas has almost tripled, yikes! I wish I had written down some prices that affect all of us last year. I saw a few post them on Facebook. We knew once Biden stopped the pipeline, our gas would go up. Grocery prices are out of control. I love hearing you are starting you garden this weekend, we will all need gardens, hang on, my friends! Linda
Hello from Strasburg, Virginia (Shenandoah Valley)! Gas prices as of 11:30 AM were ranging from $2.85-$2.90 but I am almost 99% sure those will increase by 5 PM. Only 2 out of 5 gas stations near me were open and allowing cars to fuel up. No cap on gas purchases yet..
Hi Cerrie, thanks for the update and the cost of gas where you live. Thanks for sharing how many gas stations are closed. We will get through this, but it will take time. Stay safe, Linda
Swainsboro Georgia
Gas here in town is $2.88 – $2.98. Monday evening Walmart was sold out.
I was blessed on Mother’s Day and filled up for $2.63. We were in Vidalia Georgia.
Hi Jean, yikes, no gas as of Monday night at Walmart! Thanks for the update on the gas prices. Stay safe, Linda
Hi Linda. Our gas prices here in Hawkins, Texas were $2.89.9 yesterday. I haven’t been out yet today. I was looking at Amazon and Walmart for Women’s long boy cut underwear. The lowest price was $20 for 3 pair. I may just have to make my own. LOL T-shirts aren’t as expensive, and depending on the shirt size and you underwear size, you might could get 2 pair out of one shirt. Now to just me a pattern. LOL
Food prices are going up, too. So sad for people on fixed income or working for minimum wage. Scratch cooking is less expensive.
Hi Deborah, I just drove over to the gas station in my neighborhood, gas is $3.35 for regular. Oh, my gosh, I got the giggles about making our own underwear. Has it come to that?? LOL! BEST COMMENT EVER! I can’t stop laughing. BUT, you know it may come true! I keep sharing recipe to help people cook from scratch, food is so darn expensive! Linda
Everything is getting expensive! I can remember bread being something like 19 cents a loaf. A soda was 6 cents plus deposit. But these days, it’s a different story. You can’t get out of the grocery store, for a weeks worth of grocery’s under $100.
I also remember Pot Pies being 10 cents each. LOL
Hi Deborah, oh yeah the pot pies for 10 cents or ten for $1.00! Those we the days! I remember buying a Big Mac for 53 cents when they opened McDonald’s in Salt Lake City back in 1969 or so! Wow, we’re getting older! LOL! Life is good! Linda
Hi all, Around me (Mid Michigan) prices are running about $2.87-$2.89/gal, which has been the norm for the past couple of months. It never fails though, just when DH and I are going down South end of the month to see our son and other family, Murphy’s Law strikes. He also made reservations at Disney World for my birthday end of the month as a surprise. Thanks a lot hackers!. AND it was a Non refundable deal he got so we can’t reschedule it.I’m hoping by the time we get on the road things will be a little better, haven’t seen or hugged the grand’s in over a year, we’re getting withdrawal pangs LOL.. Other than that our meat and other prices haven’t risen too much but DH read an article that a 10lb bag of potatoes is now up almost to $12.00 a bag. DH has an old classmate (family farm) that supplies spuds around Michigan. He’s going to talk to her and see how it’s going.
Hi Kathy, oh my gosh, the grandkids need to see you and YOU need to see them and hug them. I just went north for Mother’s Day to see half of my family. It’s been over a year. I hear you on the withdrawal pangs! My daughter and grandkids got tickets to Disney World, the best deal EVER! You have to go, it will be so awesome!! The best Happy Birthday gift ever! Yikes, I need to check on the price of potatoes. That’s crazy! I have some ready to harvest in 30 days or so, and I will replant all summer. You are going to have a great time in Florida! Happy Early Birthday! Hugs! Linda
here in our little town of Waxahachie TX, gas was $2.89 at most stations yesterday with most stations having cars lined up at least 3 deep.It was $2.49 just last Friday. I have not seen any gas deliveries being made, but was told that others have seen them being made. I have seen the price of eggs increase to $1.30 a dozen,and butter increase by .50 cents a pound. 96/4 ground beef rose to $10.92 for 2 pounds. Bread prices have increased as well. This is all within the past week or so. I don’t do a lot of shopping as I have most of what I need. My mom loves Rhubarb pie, and the going rate for fresh Rhubarb is $7.19 a pound. (wish it would grow around here). I feel like things are only going to get much worse as time goes by. And still people refuse to prep. God help us all.
Hi Judy, oh I hear you about the prices, yikes! I was just talking to Mark it may come to rice and beans a few times a week. I may even break into my freeze-dried food. No one can buy freeze-dried food now, the prices are ridiculous. My mom used to make a strawberry rhubarb pie, now my mouth is watering. LOL! I agree, we God to help us all. Some people never learn, we must prep. Stay safe, Linda
I’m in the midwest and our gas prices are around $2.79 per gallon.
My siblings and their families are in Richmond Virginia and gas is a huge problem there. They are able to find stations with gas but they are being limited to 2 gallons at a time. My neice’s husband is a truck driver and does most of his deliveries locally so he goes home to his family at night. He is worried that he might not have work until this gas problem is over.
I find the Colonial pipeline hack a scary thing, in it’s own way it is far more scary than anything else that has happened. This ransomware is scary. Hopefully they can figure it out quickly and be able to get gas to the stations soon. As a country, we need to learn how to protect our infostructure and keep it secure.
With the increased chicken and beef prices, I’m wondering if this is the time to go into our emergency fund to buy a second chest freezer and chicken, pork, beef and lamb directly from the farmers and fill up that freezer.
Hi Topaz, I just heard that the gas issues have been resolved but it will take a few days for things to get back to normal. Can you imagine only 2 gallons of gas, yikes! I hadn’t heard that one. Thanks for sharing the price where you live! I wonder if anyone can even buy a freezer, remember when there was a shortage and they were back-ordered? What a crazy year! Hopefully, things will calm down a bit. I’m very concerned about the rising costs of everything. I hope people realize they need to cut their expenses to be prepared for the future. I worry about our power grid getting hit. Stay safe, Linda
$2.79 in central Missouri. It has been pretty steady. I do belong to a rewards club at the station where I get gas so I can get cents off when I fuel up.
Hi June, you may be lucky, it sounds like things are starting to be back up and running. It may take a few days, they said on the news. Thanks for the update on the gas prices. Stay safe, Linda
We are in Western New York, between Buffalo and Niagara Falls. Gas is up to $2.85- $2.99. which is up a little. We moved into our home 5 years ago because it is built to age in. The valve has gone up about 30%. While our preparedness is no where near yours, Matts’ or Rays, we are better than this time last year. We live very frugal and have no debt. Our freezer is a little low on beef, but I will take care of that soon.
Hi Chris, you are lucky the value has gone up 30%. Home prices are crazy right now. The interest rates are low which is fueling the higher prices of homes. The cost to build is out of control. In Utah, they canceled some home building condos/homes because they cannot finish them because of the cost. I was in real estate for 20 years and had my own mortgage company for 15 years. I have never seen anything like this. We are way overdue for a market correction. Any preparedness is better than no preparedness. You get it, that’s what is important. Keep prepping. Stay safe, Linda
Your post about inflation got me running the numbers. We have been retired for 16 years. Even with no debt, our fixed expenses have skyrocketed. Our home and lifestyle is modest, yet it requires over $35,000. before we even buy a can of soup!! Because we own our home, and have savings, we are not eligible for any assistance (NOT that my husband would take it anyway), As we draw from our IRAs we are hit with income tax….after all, this IS New York State, and if King Cuomo doesn’t kill you, he will tax you to death. We are a blue collar family, who college educated 4 kids, yet what the future will bring can be scary.
Hi Chris, I agree with you on expenses. Mark and I live a very modest lifestyle too and would not qualify for food stamps nor would we even apply for them. It’s hard where we live because so many families are on food stamps and live in low-income housing. I have to really remove my ticked-off thoughts when I see people (using an EBT card) loading their grocery baskets with salmon, luxury ice cream, and foods that are really not necessary. If it’s cold they can buy it. We live in Utah where the families sometimes are large and thus they qualify for more $$$ on their EBT cards. I realize there are people who need it, but there are people who cheat the government and we the taxpayers. A few years ago, I went to a local church meeting and there were some young mothers bragging about how much they get for food (EBT cards) from the government. One lady mentioned if she had one more kid (her words) I could get another $500.00 a month. Needless to say, I was shocked. For some people it’s a way of life, you and I can’t understand it. You and I have worked all our life! I better get off my soapbox. Stay safe, Linda
I’m in Northern Virginia. Most gas stations in my area are out of gas. The few that do have gas, have lines that go out of the station, and out onto the main road. Literally mile long lines. Gas Sunday was $2.75. 6pm yesterday it was up to $2.85. Tonight it’s $2.91, though I did see a couple of stations where it was $2.99. My parents are supposed to go to a family reunion in NC this weekend (8 hour drive), but 65% of stations in NC are out of gas, so they’ll probably end up staying home.
Hi Melinda, wow, 65% of the gas stations are out of gas. It sounds like the issue has been “repaired” so hopefully everyone on the east coast can fill their trucks and cars. Stay safe, Linda
Hi Linda. Here in Western Australia we’re paying the equivalent of US$5.20 a gallon so you’re right when you say things can get worse.
Hi Pat, wow, your price tops all the others! WOW! I do believe even though Colonial Pipeline is back up and running or will be back to normal in a few days, it’s just the beginning of the hacks. Our infrastructure is so antiquated here in the US. God help us be ready, there are no words for how unprepared our country is. Stay safe, Linda
Gas was $2.79 this week in northern MN. No shortages. No shortages seen in grocery or other retail stores…with the exception that Good Quality lumber is harder to find and the chintzy stuff is horribly high priced. I did notice that WalMart has a smaller selection of certain household products: towels, blankets, curtains, dresser scarves, area rugs etc. I noticed this as I decorated my guest bedroom. Lol, but their sewing and crafts supplies, board games, etc , were well-stocked! One thing I noticed as I read all the comments was how nobody mentioned using thrift stores or even local online marketplace sales? As I de-clutter, I give a lot to my local thrift stores. I do ‘drop and shop’ : as in, I don’t get to buy used books unless I’m dropping the same number off first. Same for clothing! I’m looking for a loveseat for my home office room…at the thrift stores first, then will look at fb marketplace. Thought about getting a futon at Walmart but I’m into recycling, lol, and used furniture is fine with me. My sis ordered two recliners in the middle of pandemic…took 6 mos to get them. Our nephew happily took her quite nice couch and recliner for his family room. Gave his couch and chair to a charity that provides whole house furnishings for families. He even steam cleaned them first! He and his wife just wanted a ‘new look’ for their family room. I just offered a computer, monitor, keyboard for free on marketplace. I simply didn’t ever use it. Gone in a day! To a small contractor neighbor. He texted 2 days later thanking me profusely. My point? Yes, we are seeing inflation but there are other ways of living nicely without going into debt or feeling shortchanged if new prices are higher. I’m looking forward to farmers markets opening at the end of the month as I can no longer garden (but need fewer groceries too). Yes, farmers market prices for fresh is Always higher than supermarket but the produce is fresher and supports our local economy. I’ve always had a prepper mentality followed by purchasing/planning so feel quite comfortable going forward in an uncertain world. I do urge people to think about their lifestyle, plan, prepare as much as possible. If more did this, we wouldn’t Have panic buying! Just sayin’…
Hi Wendy, I LOVE LOVE LOVE your comment. My family shops the classified ads, FB Marketplace, and thrift stores. I’m always amazed at what they find. Mark and I don’t need anything, we are still decluttering! LOL! It’s our age, we don’t need anything, we need less. LOL! It feels so good to sell, give away or share with others those things we no longer need. I love it! Linda
Thanks, Linda. I’ve always found value in preparing for hard times when things are Good. Whether good or bad, Times can be dictated by our own actions as individuals. And thinking ahead is a big part of this. Decades ago, my prepping ideas were Not about food/water/energy…my goal was to be payment free: for my car and home. Frankly, most people don’t want to keep driving an old (older) vehicle and living in a home that needs repair; Most don’t want even want to try fixing stuff in their homes. Oh, and that’s okay, because this drives the local and national economy. For people who are just starting to accept the mindset of those Preparing for a tomorrow quite different than today, our group Welcomes You!
Hi Wendy, and it’s a great feeling to be debt-free. Mark and I are driving our 2009 Honda CRV because it still works great! Who cares if we have socks on the armrests? We don’t care! Life is good! Linda
Hi Linda,
I live in Dublin, PA & gas prices are now up to $3.03 per gallon. We live in suburbs of Philadelphia (about an hour away).
My daughter moved to NC in December, 70% of that states gas stations are out of gas. Bc the price of wood has skyrocketed, the price of house they’re having built was increased by $30,000. My other daughter who lives 5 minutes from me had to demo inside of their early 1700’s farmhouse & recently found out they now have to pay another $10,000 bc of wood prices. I realize after reading all the comments on here, our gas prices are pretty good compared to much of the country!
Your newsletters are so helpful keeping me on track w spending, thank you!
Hi Karen, oh my gosh, this is so sad about the prices going up for your two daughters! I wanted to sell our home and build, then the lumber started going up. Of course, ALL the house prices now are through the roof! I have a few friends who are building that lost their contracts for new homes. The builder cannot build them for the original price. The homes are now unfinished, sitting there as is. $30,000 is a lot but very common here in Utah as well for new builds. As a realtor and former mortgage company owner, I cannot imagine how the families feel and the builders have got to be stressed out over the rising prices. It’s really sad. I love hearing your gas prices are $3.03 for now anyway. Stay safe, Linda
Karen, I cannot imagine living where 70% of the gas stations are out of gas. Hopefully, this will improve in the next few days. Linda
Hi Linda, thx for your reply! My daughter in NC can not get gas anywhere right now & since they are having a home built, she’s been driving my grandkids to two different schools every day so they won’t have to change schools again when they move out of their rental home. She’s flying home tonight for her sisters baby shower & had to keep the kids home from school today so she’d have enough gas to get to the airport later. It’s just crazy & I can’t wait to see her! We haven’t seen them since they moved after Christmas
Hi Karen, SQUEAL, you get to see your daughter!! Yay! This is crazy about the gas. They just announced on the TV news that lumber has now gone up 403%!! Yesterday or the day before it was 300%. I will never be able to move! I hope the costs do not go up anymore for your daughters!! This truly crazy! Today, they mentioned the mills were shut down because of COVID. Hopefully, they will get on top of it soon. Linda
Meant to say above, not company, country but couldn’t figure out how to edit my comment lol
Hi Karen, I fixed it, my friend! Linda
Thx Linda!
Southeastern PA & today our gas prices are $3.10 for regular.
I try to keep my “tin foil hat” in check, but I do believe this & MANY other things are intentionally manufactured crises.
Example – the meat shortages? Everyone needs to do their own research, but there is plenty of info out there regarding how “they” are trying to eliminate animal agriculture.
I read some of the other comments regarding truckers. As the wife of a freight rail engineer, I keep my eyes & ears on freight rail. There’s some crazy stuff going on!
Hi Amy, well your gas price is close to mine. I’ve thought the same thing about the “meat shortage”, something is shady for sure. We just started eating less meat so it doesn’t affect my family. The tin foil hat, I love it! Stay safe, Linda
This article is even more pertinent now! Standard grade gas is $4.00 here in Alabama today at Kroger. And there was no ground beef to buy last night at Publix. Prepare; don’t panic.
Hi Carrie, thanks my friend, I believe it really is pertinent today. I’m heading to Costco today, I will take pictures. Thanks for the heads up on the ground beef. Gas is crazy high! We are prepared we will not panic. Linda
Hi Linda, I loved reading your updated article, today, it was spot on. Some things I have to add after the Hurricane double whammy.`Winter produce supply will be sharply reduced, and the prices on even staple vegetables will skyrocket, just as they did after Ian. Frozen Vegetables are ok, but miss the texture of fresh, for broccoli and squash. The rain from the dynamic duo, has also ruined produce in the fields and soaked the crop lands so thoroughly that replanting will be delayed by weeks, possibly months. Cattle, horses, poultry, and pigs cannot be let out on wet ground, so the supply of animal feeds will go up fairly substantially due to increased demand. Thus meat will go up. Unfortunately the current methods of raising chickens, can put thousands of (up to 10,000 birds). In one barn. They can be evacuated live, but having enough truckers, trucks, and destinations to evacuate them too. God knows how many chickens died in the flooding and structure damage done. They cannot be sold so they get buried instead. You would think they’d have learned a lesson after Ian, but they didn’t. I think Perdue was hit less because they are HQ in the lower Midwest. I’m concerned about the price of eggs. I bought eggs after Helene and before Milton @ $14.00 for 3dozen. Earlier in the Summer they’d been $12.00. Can’t imagine what they’ll be this Winter. They’re still likely to be the cheapest protein food. Trying to stock a shelf full of light tuna in water, before Winter, when the price per unit doubles. Trying to stuff my freezers full of meat before the price on that makes it unreachable. Steve is going to need to get used to more vegetarian meals!. Our biggest increase over the Winter months here is the price of heating oil, natural gas, gasoline, and wood.Through some corporate agreement the public were not included, all the fuel companies charge nearly double the Summer price, through the Winter months. Highway robbery if you ask me. BTW it’s been a blast reading all those comments from 2021. If we know then what we are paying now.
Hi MaryAnn, I will keep an eye on the egg prices as well. We are not buying any red meat because the prices are too high. We are using the freeze dried meats we have stored. I do buy the rotisserie chicken cut up in bags at Costco but thats all. I’m using y freeze dried vegetables as well. I like frozen vegetables and fruit better, but I want to use my freeze dried food at my age (74). Fresh is best but I don’t have a lot of options for fresh fruit and vegetables year round. I grow my own lettuce from AeroGardens but they are shutting down. I’m so sad about that. I did buy something I can use in them with my own seeds. I feel bad you have to pay more for heating oil in the winter, it’s the old supply and demand. Stay safe, Linda
Hello from central Virginia! Gas price today is $3.09, Barboursville (30 minutes North of Charlottesville, VA).
God bless and save the USA & the world indeed! Holli
Hi Holli, thank you for sharing the price of gas where you are. I totally agree with you “God bless and save the USA & the world indeed!” Linda
Hello from Myrtle Beach, SC. Local gas price at Wally World is $2.74 per gallon. Anyone ever heard of cloud seeding? There are many of us here that believe in it & feel the feds in control right now are DELIBERATELY doing this to sabotage sections of our country & certain states right now!!!!!!!!!! So, poultry, livestock, pecans, cotton, citrus fruit, medical supplies, metal, rubber, etc., etc. are all being affected. Gee, sounds like the work of anarchists to me or someone(s) out to destroy other’s lives.
Hi Janet, oh my gosh, I’m talking to someone right now about that very thing. I would love to go see Myrtle Beach, SC! Thanks for sharing your gas price for today in your area. Linda
Well Linda, if you ever do get to Myrtle Beach, contact me please. You have my email address. We are retired & have plenty of time on our hands for visiting w/ friends.
Hi Janet, thank you my friend, my husband has golfed there with his buddies. We almost bought a house there several years ago. Linda
OK then – got it! Email me if you’re ever in town again. I’d love to meet you in person.
Hi Janet, I will for sure, I met Robbie and her husband for dinner a few days ago on their way back to Nevada. What a treat! Linda
My husband no longer golfs but we’re more than willing to introduce you to some southern-style seafood!!
Hi Janet, oh my gosh, now if the plane tickets come down in price! Sounds awesome! Linda
Love you, girl…& your online prepper column!!! Take care & bless you.
Hi Janet, life is good with good friends! Linda
As of October 19, 2024, gas prices are at $3.11/gal of gas and $3.57 for diesel. There are 2 fuel stops here in Wheatland WY that are higher – name brands are at least $0.30 more per gallon. Some of the food prices are considerably higher than they were in 2023, 2022, and 2021. Meat is now a luxury unless I get a chicken from my daughter!! Veggies are pathetic, not only in price but also in quality!! I use coupons for everything I can possibly get and all other groceries are “if I can fit them into my budget!!
All that said, I am so happy that when things are on sale and I can pick up 2-4 of those items.
I don’t think, however, that prices will come down no matter what the inflation rate is! Our money just doesn’t go as far as it has in the past. I don’t see any change in that!!
Hi Leanne, thank you for sharing your price of gas in Wyoming! Meat is a luxury for me as well. We’re eating casseroles and soups to spread my budget. I told Mark we are going to start eating our freeze dried food at our age, why not? LOL! I’m 74 and he’s 78. I don’t see food prices coming down either, how can they with all the crop and farm destruction across our country. I totally agree with you. Linda
Linda,
Our gas prices here in Central Texas are running anywhere from $2.75 to $3.00 per gallon for regular. Mid grade is usually 50¢ higher and premium around a dollar higher. Prices vary some based on location. In cities, lower. Rural a little higher. I buy Ethanol free, E0 for storage purposes which is mostly premium grade and it runs close to or just over $4.00 per gallon.
Hi Harry, thank for the sharing the gas prices where you live. It helps all of us. Linda
In Western New York the regular gas stations are at $3.49, gas on the reservations is $2.95, and we paid $2.93 at BJs, with their credit card. While we haven’t seen any shortages, the prices are pushing the limits of everyones’ budget.
Our property taxes are going up over 11%. And there are rumors that our gas and electric will be going up 30% I need to rework our budget.
Ah yes, property taxes which are actually the rental that you pay the government for your property even though you may well have paid off the mortgage long ago. We never really own our homes as long as there are property taxes to pay. And, our appraisals are going out of sight. So, they brag that property tax rates are not being increased, but the appraisals are driving the property taxes higher and higher every years.
Hi Harry, You are so right, I have said that for years, we will NEVER own our homes even if they are paid off if we miss paying property taxes, we can lose our homes to the government. Linda
Harry…… You should live in NEW YORK!!! The taxes are more than a mortgage payment.
Hi Chris, oh my gosh, that’s expensive!!! WOW! Linda
HI Chris, thank you for sharing the gas prices in Western New York. Wow, property taxes up 11% and utilities up 30%, darn! Our taxes will now have to go to pay for all the student loan forgiveness. Don’t get me started on that one. Mark worked 3 jobs so we didn’t have student loans. Oh, and I ironed clothes for people and babysat kids to make extra money. You and I worked hard raising our children. God Bless all of us, Linda
Hi Linda!
Gas prices in and around the Myrtle Beach/Pee Dee areas of South Carolina have jumped since the hurricanes, and seem to be hovering between $2.94. – $3.23 this week. ( My daughter and son in law are still living in NYC though, and paying over $4.00!) We moved South, from Upstate New York, over 10 years ago, and a lot of t things have had drastic price increases in that time!
The good news is that we did not receive more than some wind and rain during the recent storms, and the peanuts, pecans and soybeans around my area seem to be doing well. The tobacco crops were also pretty good, but we don’t use tobacco products in our home. With tourist season now over, I’m hoping that prices will stabilize soon, but there are many factors to consider (the Nov. election for one). All we can do is P & P – Prep and Pray.
Hi Marie, thank you for sharing your gas price, my friend! I’m glad you received just rain and wind but otherwise okay. I love your statement P & P! Good one, Linda
Spearfish SD gas prices are $3.20 – $3.45 a gallon.
Hi Mona, thank you for sharing South Dakota gas prices! I’ve never been to South Dakota, I bet its beautiful! Linda