Coronavirus Sparks Surge In Local Unemployment Claims

BIRMINGHAM, AL — The coronavirus has impacted the local economy in a variety of ways, and the recent unemployment numbers in Alabama — particularly in metro Birmingham — continue to reflect that impact.

According to data released this week by the Alabama Department of Labor, unemployment claims in Jefferson County rose from 2,371 to 13,603, a five-fold increase in just a week's time. Statewide, 80,984 claims were filed last week, an increase of more than 10,000 from the previous week.

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Unemployment Insurance Claims by Industry

For the week ending March 28, the five industries with the most unemployment claims in the state :

1. Food Service/Hospitality (17,632)
2. Manufacturing (11,486)
3. Healthcare (7,324)
4. Administrative Support and Waste Management and Remediation Service (6,506)
5. Retail Trade (5,561)

Last week, Gov. Kay Ivey ordered a shutdown of non-essential businesses, which should affect the jobless claim numbers this week as well.

Effective March 28 through April 17, all non-work related gatherings of 1o or more people became prohibited, and non-essential businesses ordered closed. Supermarkets, banks, medical facilities, and other essential businesses will remain open.

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Coronavirus Cases In Jefferson County Make Up 1/4 Of State Total