India, May 8 -- Gas prices is an ever-increasing headache for Americans, but for Californians, things may get even complicated come 2026. This new fear has been "unlocked" following a recent study by a University of Southern California professor.

The study suggests that gasoline prices in the state could rise to $8.44 per gallon by the end of 2026. Professor Michael A. Mische, who conducted this study attributed this escalating rise of gas prices to the pending closure of two refineries. He suggests that once these refineries in California shut down, one-fifth of the state's refining capacity would see a disruption, leading to rising prices.

Gas prices in California could touch $8.44 per gallon come next year, from $4.78 per gallon (cur...