Unemployment claims increased between 12% and 17% due to the January 2025 Palisades and Eaton fires, according to a new report from the nonpartisan California Policy Lab.

Analysis by researchers at the University of California institute showed that unemployment claims surged not only in the fire zones but also among people living in neighborhoods far from the fires, especially in South and Central Los Angeles. There were also large increases in claims from workers in low-wage industries like accommodations and food services, and workers with lower levels of education.

“Our analysis shows the economic impacts extended beyond the Palisades and Altadena, as workers who live in areas like South and Central L.A. but commuted to work in the fire areas also filed for unemployment in the after

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