U.S. consumer sentiment fell early this month to its lowest level in 13 years, in the aftermath of high gasoline prices and the disruptions from hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

The University of Michigan’s preliminary October index of consumer sentiment fell to 75.4, according to media reports.

That was below a final September reading of 76.9 and much below analyst’s predictions of an increase to 80.0.

The survey’s expectations component eased to 62.4 from 63.3. Forecasters had called for an increase to 67.0. The early October expectations reading was the lowest since March 1992.

The index of current conditions fell to 95.7 in early October from 98.1 in September. That also went against Wall Street forecasts for a slight rise to 99.5.

The report is seen as an indicator of consumer spending, which makes up about two-thirds of overall U.S. economic activity.

The report is available only to subscribers.