WINTER FUEL SUPPLIES ADEQUATE, EXPERTS SAY

Supplies of most fuels are expected to be adequate, although more expensive, this winter, in the wake of the Persian Gulf crisis, a panel of energy experts said. No shortages are expected in supplies of gasoline, jet fuel, and heating oil. But supplies of propane already are at levels lower than last year and could present a ``potentially serious problem'' this winter, says Calvin Kent of the federal Energy Information Administration.

Propane is used in great amounts by farmers and food producers to dry crops and as a chemical feedstock. It is also used for heating and cooking.

The Persian Gulf crisis, which erupted following Iraq's Aug. 2 invasion of Kuwait, is expected to create a shortfall of about 1 million barrels of oil daily worldwide by the end of the fourth quarter, Mr. Kent says.