It sounds like a headline from an 80s cyberpunk novel, but the one The US is faced with a sudden shortage of gas Many Americans panicked (and in many cases, panicked) buying gasoline following a ransomware attack on Colonial Pipeline.

The shortage has increased gas prices and left parts of the east coast with minimal fuel supplies. For those who are struggling to fill up their tanks, here are a few apps that will show you where nearby gas pumps are and which ones actually have gas for sale.

GasBuddy (Android, iOS)

GasBuddy saw an increase in downloads for iOS and Android during the current gas shortage. The free app shows all nearby petrol stations and enables you to search for companies. It contains a real-time price card and an outage tracker. These features can help you find out where fuel is left without having to call ahead or drive around town to find the cheapest option.

In addition to its search and supply tracking functions, GasBuddy also helps you find fuel-efficient routes, track your journeys and even pay for your gasoline in the app (at participating petrol stations). While these features are unique to the Smartphone appyou can search for the cheapest gas by state on the GasBuddy website. There is also a Fuel demand tracker that predicts price and supply estimates.

G / O Media can receive a commission

Google Maps (Android, iOS, Desktop)

Google Maps is another option that most users already use on their smartphones. The web version is also easily accessible from any browser.

Open Google Maps and enter “Gas station” in the search bar or go to “See places nearby”> More> Gas stations. Some petrol stations will show you the current prices. Use the filters at the top of the search results to only see stations that are open now or that are open 24/7. If you have an electric vehicle, Google Maps too shows nearby charging stations for electric vehicles.

Google Maps also allows users to submit reviews and other updated business information to help identify gas stations with current inventory levels. However, there are no special options in Google Maps for marking a gas station as empty. So you need to check the latest comments and ratings.

[MakeUseOf]