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Total working gas in storage now stands at 2,397 Bcf, which is 208 Bcf lower than the same period last year and 111 Bcf below the five-year average. While this signals a tightening supply picture, inventories remain within the historical range, limiting immediate bullish pressure.<\/p>\n
Regionally, the largest drawdowns occurred in the Midwest (-56 Bcf) and South Central (-47 Bcf), reflecting stronger heating demand in those areas. The East pulled 45 Bcf, while smaller declines were recorded in the Pacific (-16 Bcf) and Mountain (-12 Bcf) regions. Notably, the South Central salt storage saw a sharper decline of 12 Bcf, highlighting potential volatility in near-term supply balances.<\/p>\n
Current weather patterns show a divided U.S., with the northern third experiencing frigid temperatures and snow, while the southern two-thirds remain mild. NatGasWeather projects light national demand through the weekend but anticipates a sharp increase to high demand levels next week as colder air pushes southward.<\/p>\n
This shift could provide some support for prices, particularly if colder trends persist beyond mid-February. However, the market remains cautious, as recent mild conditions have kept withdrawals in line with seasonal expectations rather than triggering a sustained price breakout.<\/p>\n