HAWAII ISLAND – North and east facing shores of Hawaii Island are bracing for big waves this evening.

The National Weather Service has issued a High Surf Warning for the Big Island from Upolu Point to Cape Kumukahi, including Hilo Bay. A High Surf Warning means there is a significant threat to life and property from the surf, emergency officials say.

The High Surf Warning goes into effect Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. and will remain in effect through Wednesday.

The former large north-northwest swell will continue to shift out of the north this evening while a reinforcing pulse of north-northeast swell builds surf to warning levels.

Wave heights along north facing shores is forecast to be 15 to 20 ft. this evening, rising to 20 to 25 ft tonight. Along east facing shores, surf will build to 6 to 10 ft. this evening, and 10 to 15 ft. tonight.

“Oceanfront residents and beachgoers along the affected shores are advised to be on the alert for possible high and dangerous surf including beach and road closures,” Hawaii County Civil Defense said in a Tuesday alert. “You are advised to exercise caution due to the unpredictability of huge swells and dangerous surf. As a precaution, boat owners and oceanfront residents should take actions to secure their property before nightfall.”