Unemployment in Spokane County climbed for the fourth consecutive month in February, to 10.6 percent.

Statistics released today by the Washington Employment Security Department show a modest increase in total employment, to 213,210, up 460 from 212,750 in January.

But the workforce grew faster, up 1,230 to 238,430 in February.

There were 25,220 people looking for work.

The department released statewide unemployment numbers earlier this month. The February rate was 9.8 percent.

All figures are unadjusted for seasonal swings in employment.

The unemployment rate in Spokane County has increased steadily since October, when the rate was 8.6 percent.

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