 As of 11am today, September 28, 2016, the tropical wave has been upgraded to Tropical Storm Matthew, and St. Lucia is under a Tropical Storm Warning. Tropical Storm Warnings are issued 36 hours or less in advance of anticipated onset of tropical storm conditions. The system is moving to the west, northwest at approximately 15 to 20 miles per hour, or 24 to 32 kilometers per hour. The center is expected to cross the island chain near the Central Windward Islands later on today, Wednesday 28 September 2016. Associated with this system are heavy rains and tropical storm force winds that is between 40 to 45 miles per hour. The acting Prime Minister had earlier today advised that all schools remain closed for today, and that all business houses and government offices close at 12 noon. At this time, you should continue preparing your home and reviewing your emergency plan. Additionally, NIMO is advising the public to continue monitoring the progress of the system and take immediate pre-emptive action to protect themselves and their property. The public are hereby reminded that the official source for information are the Met Office and NIMO in St. Lucia.