The coronavirus crisis is taking its toll on the economy as more than 55,000 Michiganders filed for unemployment between Monday and Wednesday, the Labor Department said, a 1,500% increase over expected levels.

It was an "unprecedented increase," the department said.

What's worse, the jobless claims are expected to climb, as more professional offices shutter and additional malls, retailers, services such as salons and even hospitals announce reduced hours and temporary closings.

Coronavirus has brought not just a public health threat, but now, a financial one, too, as laid-off Michiganders are expected to begin to struggle to make ends meet.

A University of Michigan analysis released Thursday predicted the coronavirus outbreak will lead to the start of a recession that will cost Michigan between 155,000 and 400,000 jobs.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed into law a coronavirus relief package that includes provisions for free testing for COVID-19 and paid emergency leave.

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But, the state's online system was so overwhelmed this week, the state labor department posted a warning to workers on its website.

"Due to the high volume of users at this time, you may experience some slowness using MiWAM," the labor department posted on its website, referring to the electronic filing system. "We’re working with our IT team to monitor the system and ensure the site remains available for employees facing unemployment."

Contact Frank Witsil: 313-222-5022 or fwitsil@freepress.com