Mendocino County residents, already paying over $1.50 more than the national average -$4.69 in Ukiah, $4.95 in Gualala, now face a sudden 20-cent, 48-hour gas price spike. The jump, driven by the Middle East conflict and Iran’s Strait of Hormuz disruption, follows California’s summer-blend fuel switch. Oil prices surged to year-plus highs, with U.S. crude and Brent both up 12%+, immediately affecting local commuters despite President Trump’s earlier prediction.