Powerful typhoon heads towards Japan

OKINAWA, Japan (KGO) -- Japan is bracing for destructive winds and huge waves as a powerful typhoon churns towards the southern islands of Okinawa.

Waves of 40 to 50 feet in height are feared as Super Typhoon Neoguri approaches.

Heavy rain is falling in southern Japan ahead of the approaching hurricane-like storm. It's expected to bring wind gusts up to 185 miles per hour.

Tens of thousands of people living in the area are being advised to evacuate before Typhoon Neoguri arrives.

Officials at Kadena Air Base are warning that this is the most powerful storm to hit the island in 15 years.

All aircraft have been moved to other bases in the pacific, outside the typhoon's path.