PORTLAND (AP) — Gasoline prices are up slightly in Oregon since the first of the month.

The average price of a gallon of regular gas in Oregon has climbed three cents since April 1st to $3.44 while the national average is at $3.357.

According to AAA Oregon, the statewide average is still below the record of $3.462, set on March 17th.

The automobile service says gas prices are expected to rise as the spring and summer driving season draws closer.

Officials are predicting a national average of around $3.50 between now and Memorial Day. But some analysts, including the U.S. Department of Energy, say $4 gas is possible this summer.

A year ago, the national average was $2.80, while Oregon’s average was $3.01.