Tropical Storm Ernesto strengthens over Carribean

(AP) ROSEAU, Dominica - Tropical Storm Ernesto is dumping heavy rain across the eastern Caribbean as it heads west toward Jamaica and Mexico.

Dominica closed its international airport for a second day on Friday, while St. Lucia ordered businesses to close for half the day. A ferry that travels to Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinique and St. Lucia also has temporarily suspended service.

Tropical Storm Ernesto forms off Caribbean

No damage or flooding has been reported on islands affected by the storm. Gusts of up to 63 mph (101 kph) were reported in some areas.

The National Hurricane Center said Ernesto is located about 90 miles (140 kilometers) west of St. Lucia near midday with top sustained winds of 50 mph (85 kph).

It is moving at 21 mph (33 kph) and is expected to strengthen into a hurricane by Monday.

For updates, check in with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association's Hurricane Center.