The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits last week surged to the highest level since 2021, evidence the historically tight labor market is softening in the face of rising interest rates.

Figures released Thursday by the Labor Department show initial claims for the week ended June 3 surged by 28,000 to 261,000, well above the 2019 pre-pandemic average of 218,000 claims. It marks the steepest level for jobless claims since October 2021. 

Continuing claims, filed by Americans who are consecutively receiving unemployment benefits, fell slightly to 1.76 million for the week ended May 27, a decrease of 37,000 from the previous week. 

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.