Daily data shows a sharp rise in unemployment claims amid the pandemic. For comparison, the state received only about 400 unemployment claims on Monday, March 9.

A week later, the state reported 3,900 claims in one day.

And on Tuesday, there were a staggering 6,800 claims by 10 a.m.

The surge in unemployment claims came as Gov. Jared Polis ordered a temporary shutdown of ski resorts and restaurants — measures that health experts say will slow the spread of the virus and minimize the chances that hospitals are overwhelmed. Meanwhile, an oil glut is draining the drilling industry and air travel is collapsing.

The state's computer systems are straining under the load, resulting in glitches when people try to file their claims online. CDLE leaders suggested using the “save” function frequently.

“There have been some technical challenges. We’re working through that,” said Jeff Fitzgerald, director of the Division of Unemployment Insurance.

Unemployment claims allow workers to replace 55 percent of their wages when they lose work. The benefit is only available to people with legal immigration status in the United States.