U.S. energy inventories show crude oil decline and natural gas increase

Weekly energy inventory reports from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) show significant shifts in both crude oil and natural gas supplies.

Crude oil inventories experienced a larger-than-expected decline of 4.45 million barrels, significantly exceeding the estimated drawdown of 1.085 million barrels. Gasoline inventories fell by 1.173 million barrels, while distillate stocks rose by 0.796 million barrels, contrary to estimates of a drawdown. These declining crude supplies can signal tighter market conditions or stronger demand.

In the natural gas sector, inventories saw a net increase of 30 billion cubic feet (Bcf) as of August 28, 2026, bringing total working gas in storage to 3,214 Bcf. While this is 50 Bcf lower than the previous year, it remains 160 Bcf above the five-year average. Regional data shows increases in the East and Midwest, while other regions reported decreases.