US Natgas Prices Drop to 6-Week Low
US natural gas futures fell about 5% to a six-week low to $2.47/MMBtu on Monday, influenced by increased production, lower demand forecasts, and a surplus of gas in storage. Despite an ongoing heat wave, gas prices declined as analysts highlighted high inventories and rising production. Gas output in the Lower 48 U.S. states averaged 98.8 bcfd in June, up from May's 25-month low of 98.8 bcfd. Gas flows to major US LNG export plants dropped in June due to maintenance at several facilities. Feedgas to the Freeport LNG plant increased after a significant drop, with operations impacted by compressor system issues. Texas's ERCOT noted that peak demand in June nearly set a record, and July demand is expected to break records due to heightened air conditioning use. Hurricane Beryl is expected to affect Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula and the Bay of Campeche, impacting oil production.