PHILIPSBURG - The Windward Islands are preparing for a tropical storm. A weather warning has been issued for the islands of Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. The tropical disturbance heading towards the Caribbean has been named 'Ernesto.' 

Ernesto now has a 100% chance of developing into a hurricane within the next two days. Schools on Sint Maarten will remain closed in the coming days, as announced by Minister of Education Lyndon Lewis (UPP). This decision allows educational staff to take additional measures on Monday to secure school buildings against the approaching severe weather. Additionally, businesses will remain closed until further notice. 

The worst weather is expected on Tuesday, with heavy rainfall also anticipated on Wednesday. 

Ernesto is expected to bring periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms, with wind speeds ranging from 32 to 40 kilometers per hour and gusts reaching up to 56 to 80 kilometers per hour. Residents are urged to prepare for conditions typical of a tropical storm. 

The Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) Caribbean Netherlands has also issued a warning for Saba and Sint Eustatius. Severe thunderstorms may sweep over the islands, with gusts of up to 75 kilometers per hour and rainfall exceeding 30 millimeters per hour.