(BIVN) – The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a High Surf Warning for the east-facing shores of Hawaii Island, in effect through tomorrow.

According to Hawaii County Civil Defense, the Hawaii Fire Department reports the current surf heights along affected shores are between 8 to 15 feet. The highest threat will coincide with the high tides, which occur today at 2:15 p.m. and 3 a.m. Thursday morning.

The high surf is the result of strong east southeast winds, weather forecasters say. The surf will gradually trend down but remain at advisory conditions on Thursday.

“Expect strong breaking waves, shore break, and strong longshore and rip currents making swimming difficult and dangerous,” the National Weather Service reported. “The long duration of the large surf combined with strong onshore winds and beach erosion could result in some overwash onto vulnerable low-lying sections of east facing shorelines at and around high tide cycles.”

Hawaii County Civil Defense made these points in a Wednesday afternoon message:

• Oceanfront residents and beachgoers along the affected shores are advised to be on the alert for high and dangerous surf.
• Boat owners and oceanfront residents should take action to secure their property before nightfall.
• Roads and beach closures may occur without notice.