The harsh winter has done more than envelope the country in cold temperatures and blustery days. It has kept many residents of Texas and elsewhere home from work as well, according to a recent study. Warmer weather may signal an end to that trend, which could be a relief for those whose tight budgets have them considering personal bankruptcy.
The study was done by the Labor Department. It showed that more than 625,000 people were prevented by inclement weather from getting to their jobs recently. February was shown to be particularly affected, with more than 400,000 people reporting they were unable to get to their workplace due to storms and cold temperatures.
Officials have not yet reached a consensus on the meaning behind the newly-released statistics. One thing, however, seems clear. The record-breaking low temperatures had an adverse effect.
Fewer new jobs became available than was usual in past years — many with milder winters. Just over 140,000 jobs became available in January. This is almost 50,000 short of the usual average. Some of the difference should be attributed to the extreme temperatures and precipitation, according to economists, who say they are confident that improving weather conditions should lead to improving employment conditions as well.
Officials say spring and summer are traditionally better seasons in which to look for a job because more employment opportunities tend to be available during periods of nicer weather. Unfortunately, for those residents in Texas and the rest of the country who are living lives close to (or beyond) the budgetary edge, the improved job situation could come too late to make a difference. For them, personal bankruptcy could be a viable option that gives them start fresh without depending on the whims of nature to make a difference.
Source: MarketWatch, Why job hunters should cheer the end of the winter, Jonnelle Marte, March 8, 2014