Typhoon approaches Okinawa

TOKYO -- An unusually powerful typhoon packing 155 mph gusts is approaching the southern Japanese island of Okinawa.

Okinawa weather officials projected that Typhoon Bolaven would be the strongest typhoon to hit the island in several years.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said the typhoon was centered about 125 miles southeast of Okinawa and was expected to pass directly over the island by Sunday evening, dumping as much as 20 inches of rain over a 24-hour period.

Public broadcaster NHK warned that the storm's strong winds could produce heavy damage and told residents to stay indoors and away from windows.