In the week ending February 28, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 320,000, an increase of 7,000 from the previous week’s unrevised level of 313,000. The 4-week moving average was 304,750, an increase of 10,250 from the previous week’s unrevised average of 294,500, the U.S. Department of Labor reported.

The advance seasonally adjusted insured unemployment rate was 1.8% for the week ending February 21, unchanged from the previous week’s unrevised rate. The advance number for seasonally adjusted insured unemployment during the week ending February 21 was 2,421,000, an increase of 17,000 from the previous week’s revised level. The previous week’s level was revised up 3,000 from 2,401,000 to 2,404,000.

In a related report, Bloomberg said claims reached the highest level in more than nine months, a sign harsh winter weather may be stalling the job market’s progress.

To view the full U.S. Department of Labor report, click here.