Typhoon Mitag approaches southern South Korea

SEOUL- This year's 18th typhoon Mitag was approaching the southern regions of South Korea, the country's weather service said Wednesday.

The mid-strength typhoon was forecast to make a landfall in waters near the country's southwest port city of Mokpo at about midnight, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA).

The maximum wind speed was reported at 29 meters per second, with its central pressure of 980 hectopascals. The strength of the typhoon was expected to be weaker when it arrives at the southern region.

Mitag was predicted to move along the southern regions and exit to the East Sea on Thursday afternoon. It would bring heavy rain and strong wind to the country, after hitting the southern resort island of Jeju.

Precipitations in the Jeju island ranged from at least 130 millimeters to over 240 millimeters as of 10 am local time. More than 250 flights were canceled in the island, with sea routes being blocked.

Schools were closed or had their hours shortened. The government raised its storm warning level by one notch earlier in the day to more strictly prepare for emergency situations.