Number of People Filing for Unemployment Highest in 18 Months - kcentv.com - KCEN HD - Waco, Temple, and Killeen

(KCEN) -- The number of people filing for unemployment benefits has skyrocketed.

It's now at the highest level in 18 months.

The Labor Department says last week the number increased by 78,000 people.

Hurricane Sandy is believed to be partially responsible for the increase because many applications were filed in states affected by the storm.

People are allowed to file claims if their workplace is closed and they are not paid.