East Valley gas prices are averaging $4.50 a gallon, 29 cents more than a week ago, AAA Arizona figures show.

The Arizona average is $4.23 for a gallon of regular, 20 cents more than last week.

The national average - $3.87 as of Saturday - rose 5 cents in the last week, and the potential for higher prices remain as weather clouds the picture.

AAA officials said the potential for hurricanes and forecasts of an expanding heat dome over Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas could push oil prices higher, as refineries may have to curb production to deal with increased temperatures.

“The heat is returning, and we are also entering the heart of hurricane season,” Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson, said.

“While fewer drivers are fueling up at the moment, these looming weather concerns are a roadblock to falling pump prices. Gas prices may keep waffling until mid-September or longer.”