A storm upgraded to “Super Typhoon” is heading for Okinawa and is expected to angle to the northeast and go to Japan’s main islands.  The cyclone dubbed “Neoguri” is the strongest typhoon so far in the 2014 Western Pacific season.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said Typhoon Neoguri was already gusting at more than 250 km an hour.  And it may pick up more power as it heads north.

“This storm’s characteristic is its strength,” said one Japanese meteorological official.  He called on people in Okinawa to evacuate early, before the storm’s expected arrival on Tuesday, with its powerful wind and lashing rain.  Those who can’t should take precautions, including staying indoors.  US Air Force Brigadier general James Hecker is warning all personnel on the bases on Okinawa, “this is not just another typhoon”. 

There are no nuclear plants on Okinawa.  But there are on Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands.

Typhoons are regular visitors to Japan.  But they're usually not this strong and don't come this early.