Seattle Now Wednesday Evening Headlines
9 snips
Jan 22, 2026 Tech layoffs hit Seattle hard with over 13,000 job cuts, raising local unemployment rates. Governor Ferguson requests $21 million from FEMA for disaster relief. Meanwhile, Seattle chefs celebrate 17 James Beard Award nominations, showcasing local culinary talent. A lawsuit over rent caps in manufactured housing adds to the local discourse, and health officials are alerting the community about a measles outbreak in Snohomish County. The weather forecast boasts a chilly nine-day stretch with no rain in sight.
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Officials Monitor ICE Activity Near Schools
- Governor Bob Ferguson and Mayor Katie Wilson are monitoring reported ICE activity near Seattle schools closely.
- Six South Seattle schools issued shelter-in orders while students continued classes inside for safety.
Tech Layoffs Drive Local Unemployment Up
- Tech layoffs are pushing Seattle's unemployment above the national average, reaching 5.1% in November.
- About 13,000 regional layoffs last year were recorded, with more than half from tech, suggesting more job-market strain ahead.
Prepare For Cold Dry Weather
- Expect continued cold days with highs in the mid-40s and overnight freezing lows through the weekend.
- Dress warmly and prepare for freezing nights despite a prolonged dry spell without rain.