Diesel prices retreat slightly from record highs but remain elevated after volatile year

SPOKANE — Diesel prices remain near record levels in Washington state despite easing slightly from a historic peak reached earlier this fall, capping a year marked by dramatic price swings that strained farmers, truckers and businesses dependent on fuel. In October, diesel averaged $7.30 per gallon in Washington, compared with $6.27 nationally, according to AAA. Among regional markets, Walla Walla posted the highest average at $7.43 per gallon, while Wenatchee averaged $7.32, Spokane $7.22 and Yakima $7.17. Those prices are slightly below September levels, when Washington’s statewide average reached $7.32 per gallon and the national average climbed to $6.32. AAA recorded the highest diesel average on record Sept. 23 at $7.47 per gallon. The record-setting prices marked the culmination of months of increases that began much earlier in the year.