The Thunder Bay casino was closed early Monday morning

TORONTO - The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Commission (OLG) has moved to shut down casinos across the province, in light of concerns over COVID-19. The agency said in a release Sunday afternoon that all Ontario casinos are expected to take part in the "orderly shutdown" within approximately 24 hours.

Gateway Casinos in Thunder Bay closed its doors for an indefinite period at 4:00 AM Monday.

OLG did not provide a tentative date for reopening across the province, saying it will "[take] into account guidance from public health authorities" before providing an update.

Meanwhile, the Grand Portage Casino, just across the Minnesota border about 70 kilometres away, says it is remaining open for now. Additional precautions, such as cancelling buffet service, enhancing disinfectant procedures, and making hand sanitizer available, have been taken.