It may be a holiday weekend, with Labor Day observed throughout the United States today, but it will not bring the usual revenue boost to casinos along the Gulf Coast. Hurricane Gustav, expected to batter the shores of Louisiana and Mississippi when it reaches land this morning, has seen to the mass evacuation of nearly two million people in Louisiana. The Mississippi Gaming Commission ordered closure proceedings to commence at 7 a.m. yesterday of 12 casinos along its Gulf Coast.

All patrons were escorted from the casinos and by 3 p.m. Sunday the casinos were closed after casino employees, Gaming Commission agents and auditors worked together to complete proceedings. As well as its Grand Biloxi Casino, Hotel and Spa closing, Harrah’s Entertainment announced that Harrah’s New Orleans Casino & Hotel in Louisiana was closed on Saturday afternoon. Isle of Capri Casinos closed its property in Lake Charles, Louisiana as well as its Biloxi facility.

Hurricane Gustav is not expected to wreak as much damage as Hurricane Katrina three years ago. However, it will test whether measures put in place since then will be successful. A dangerous storm surge could still breach levees strengthened in the wake of Katrina. Even if damage from Gustav is limited, some fear that the arrival of this hurricane could see more people leave the area permanently. Skilled labour shortages have already caused recovery from Katrina to be delayed. (E-09.01.08)

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