Once a tropical storm, Isaac has officially ramped up to full hurricane force. Now a category 1 hurricane, residents of the American South-East are expecting strong winds, and coastal flooding. Among those preparing for the worst are republican delegates assembled in Tampa, Florida for the Republican National Convention. Of particular interest to people in all parts of the nation, is the effect the storm will have on gasoline prices. According to CBS News, more than 40% of the United States’ oil refineries are located on the Gulf Coast, half of which are in the storms path. Numerous refineries have ceased production or are considering to do so in response to the hurricane. This shut down could cause gas prices to go up by 5 to 10 cents.