Nat-Gas Prices Climb as US Weather Forecasts Turn Colder

Core Insights - Natural gas prices in the US increased by 3.70% on Thursday due to colder weather forecasts, which are expected to boost heating demand [1] - US dry gas production reached 107.1 billion cubic feet per day (bcf/day), marking a 3.7% year-over-year increase, while gas demand rose to 79.2 bcf/day, a 12.1% year-over-year increase [2] - The EIA's report indicated that natural gas inventories rose by 74 billion cubic feet (bcf), aligning with market expectations but exceeding the 5-year average [5] Production and Demand - US natural gas production is currently near record highs, with the EIA raising its 2025 production forecast by 0.5% to 107.14 bcf/day [3] - Active natural gas drilling rigs in the US remained stable at 121, just below the 2.25-year high of 124 rigs [6] Electricity Output - US electricity output increased by 1.9% year-over-year to 72,772 gigawatt hours (GWh) for the week ending October 25, contributing positively to gas prices [4] Inventory Levels - As of October 24, natural gas inventories were up 0.5% year-over-year and 4.6% above the 5-year seasonal average, indicating sufficient supply [5] - European gas storage was reported to be 83% full, compared to the 5-year average of 92% for this time of year [5]