Super Typhoon Bavi Barrels Toward China

The typhoon, which earlier packed winds of 290 km/h, has weakened slightly but expanded in size, threatening widespread flooding and landslides.

China has shut parks and lowered reservoir levels in preparation, while Taiwan expects up to a meter of rain in some areas.

The storm passed near Japan's Sakishima Islands, causing travel disruptions.

The disaster comes amid warnings of a strengthening El Niño, which could fuel more powerful typhoons.