[Keith in Iowa]

Not quite...according to http://news.ft.com/cms/s/182d0182-18c5-11da-8fe9-00000e2511c8.html, analysts estimated roughly 12 per cent of total US crude oil production and 10 per cent of US refining capacity had to be shut down - so your doomsday scenario is just as misplaced as you claim the media's rosy picture to be.

[alligator]

I work (technical sales) in the industry, and in those refineries, and am quite familiar with each and every refinery down there. My intent on reporting this was not to have panic set in or cause greater concern. I didn't even consider that aspect. However, that said, I can understand the feds not wanting to have the situation worsen by hording and panic buying, so I would expect there to be news articles planted to reassure the public. But I speak from knowledge. You do what you want with that info...

[jwpjr]

re: 10 per cent of US refining capacity had to be shut down

I have never understood why this should be so big a deal. I buy gas about once a week and it usually takes me 12 gallons or so to fill the tank of my Scion Xb. All that 10% cut should mean to me is that I buy only 10 gallons next time.

[ImphClinton]

Fine.

However we need 98% of our refining capacity. That leaves us 8% short.