Casinos Among Businesses Closed By Unusual Southern Snowstorm

Thousands of people are waking up this morning to something they’re just not used to seeing in the southern United States— winter weather.

South Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia are experiencing snow accumulations of 2–6 inches, freezing rain, and sleet.

The rare storm isn’t just shutting down airports and schools; it’s also drawing out locals, many of whom have never seen snow before.

Gulfport, Mississippi, Mayor Billy Hewes declared a state of emergency in response to the winter storm.

“This storm presents a rare and significant challenge for South Mississippi,” Mayor Hewes said. “We ask everyone to take this situation seriously, stay off the roads, and follow updates from official sources to stay informed.”

Roads, bridges, schools, and businesses are closed throughout the South, including some casinos.

Casinos Close Due To Southern Winter Storm

Most casinos will stay open, mainly because they have hotel guests. However, some casinos will close their restaurants and other amenities.

Scarlet Pearl Casino, however, took it one step further. The casino, hotel, and all venues closed at midnight on Monday and will remain closed until noon tomorrow.

The announcement was made on social media, specifically on Facebook and the casino’s X account.

The post read: “We hope you and your family are safe and warm and that our locals enjoyed their snow day! Due to the extent of today's inclement weather, and out of concern for our guests and associates, Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort will remain closed on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. The casino, hotel, and all venues will open on Thursday, January 23, 2025 at Noon.”

The casino also put out a statement and shared this quote: “These decisions are never easy but are necessary. Scarlet Pearl cares about the safety of our associates, guests, friends, and family.”

Beau Rivage Remains Open

But the Beau Rivage Casino in Biloxi also released a statement on its X account, saying the staff was “closely monitoring the winter weather and expects to remain open with limited impact on operations.”

In states that have legal online casinos, business appears to be flowing as usual.

Florida Panhandle Hit Hard By Snow

Florida is experiencing its most severe winter weather since 1989. Residents in the western Panhandle are being advised to stay off the roads.

The Pensacola Greyhound Track & Poker Room is typically open to the public seven days a week, but the storm shut it down at 3 a.m. and it won’t reopen until 11 a.m.

Reports indicate that 5 to 12 inches of snow have fallen around Pensacola. As a result, troopers have shut down nearly 70 miles of Interstate 10. The National Weather Service has issued a rare Winter Storm Warning from Pensacola to Jacksonville, cautioning that snow and ice could make travel dangerous.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency on Monday in anticipation of the storm. He noted that the Panhandle could see record-breaking snowfall. Previously, Florida's greatest snowfall was 4 inches in Milton, near Pensacola, on March 6, 1954. This record was surpassed on Tuesday with reported snow amounts around Pensacola.

If you're stuck inside because of the storm, you can pass the time by trying one of the many sweepstakes casinos available throughout the south. The good news is you can play with free gold coins, but you also have the option to purchase more if you feel the need. Just remember to set limits and always gamble responsibly.