Gas prices, Ike, and panic buying

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Okay, so I've noticed a bit of discussion about this all already but there's some information that I haven't noticed. Number one: Panic buying is wide-spread. While it can be described as MILD panic, many gas stations have reported shortages because people're buying more than they would've otherwise, and more than the stations have bought for the day. Number two: It looks like gouging, i.e. illegal raising of the prices by gas stations is also widespread, though less so than the panic-buying. Number three: Self fulfilled prophecy. I've come to the conclusion that, the gouging gas stations raising it up to insane prices, thinking they could get away with it because of Ike have helped spur the rumors that the prices will get above $5. Now, if the oil people are to be believed, prices are reliant on supply and demand. You've probably already noted that demand has gone way down in the United States meanwhile oil companies have been getting more and more supplies of oil. Prices were up to four dollars for awhile here in the United States, and fell again because demand went down. Obviously, there's some risk that people panic-buying will raise the prices artificially. Plus there's that little detail that Ike might've done some damage to the oil rigs out in the Gulf. My brother keeps rolling his eyes when I talk about this and saying, "Stupid people." but again, who knows when and where this started exactly. All we know now, is that people are panic-buying everywhere....or maybe it's more accurate to say that they're buying excess for preparedness when they probably wouldn't have had anything to prepare for before. Now, I'll remind ya'll that there should be NO huge shortages to global supply, but we all know how tricky oil companies can be. SO, what're your thoughts to how this will develop? Your thoughts on people's reactions to this? Your reaction? DISCLAIMER: I know this is a classic line, considering how alot of officials and news stations are saying it, but I'd like to advise NOT panicking since it will help NOTHING. I hope ya'll are the same cool-headed folks I've known here on mylot for awhile, and will stay level-headed in your thinking about this. =)