Colonial Pipeline: As experts tell consumers not to panic, overbuying spurs gas shortages ASHEVILLE - After the operator of one of the nation's largest fuel pipelines endured a ransomware attack May 7, people are rushing to snap up gas over fear of an impending shortage. Over the weekend, the Colonial Pipeline as a precaution shut down its pipeline, which runs from Texas to New York Harbor. The majority of the Asheville area's gas arrives through the 5,500-mile Colonial Pipeline. Crude oil is processed at Gulf Coast refineries in Texas and Louisiana, then shipped to storage terminals, including one in Spartanburg, South Carolina, the closest terminal to Asheville.