Is this the month when prices finally begin to cool?

A report on Wednesday is expected to show that price increases slowed in July, as lower gas prices and airfares created a welcome reprieve for consumers and policymakers.

But it is not clear whether the moderation will last, because fuel prices are unpredictable and gas prices could climb again. Economists have also warned that while inflation is expected to slow in the months ahead, it might not moderate enough, and the Federal Reserve may…