WATCH: Industry Experts Plead, Don’t Panic at the Pump

Sep 20, 2016 7:11 PM EDT

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COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) – Gas industry experts stress while the pipeline leak is causing panic in other Southeastern states, South Carolina residents need to remain calm.

It’s come to be known as a “gas shortage”, but Bonnie Loomis, the South Carolina Petroleum Council Executive Director, says the pipeline leak has actually just created a kink in distribution. She says the event is different than the effects you’d see from a natural disaster, like a hurricane, where actual production might be affected.

“South Carolina is fortunately in a better position than other states in our region,” she said. Loomis says areas of the state that rely on the Colonial Pipeline can send trucks down to the Port of Charleston, but it does take longer and cost more. Governor Nikki Haley has issued an executive order, to make it easier for them to do so.

“So you are seeing fluctuations in price that is primarily based on that supply logistical challenge that the retail operators are facing,” Loomis said.

AAA of the Carolinas reports prices in the Columbia area have risen an average of eight cents in the past week. The motor club says there are two things you can do to maximize your fuel economy: make sure your tire pressure is at the right level and the air filter in your engine is clean.

“If they continue with their normal habits, fill up like they usually do, don’t panic and try to put something in every empty gas can, we’re gonna be okay,” Robert Martin, Assistant Manager at AAA Car Care in Irmo said.

Maintain your normal buying pattern and put off filling-up your tank.

“If we collectively think of each other and conserve where we can, it’ll help everybody else,” Loomis said.

The Colonial Pipeline Company, which owns the ruptured pipe, says that it’s in the process of routing gas from a second pipeline to locations across the Southeast, including to South Carolina.