Hurricane Igor was heading to Bermuda Saturday, and the land's Premier Ewart Brown called for local people to "protect life and property" ahead of one of the worst storms.

The hurricane already caused high waves along the south shore of the island by Saturday afternoon, and forecasters predicted Igor would make landfall in Bermuda between Sunday afternoon and early Monday.

Forecasters said the tropical storm would force strong wind with a speed of above 119 km per hour to last for about 10 hours.

The Miami-based hurricane center predicted Igor "a dangerous hurricane" as its total rainfall might accumulate 15 to 22 cm over Bermuda and cause destructive coastal flooding.

"This storm will be a long and punishing one and the potential for injury and physical damage is great," the premier was quoted by local media as saying.

Residents of the regions have stocked up emergency supplies like food, batteries and candles. Tourists lined up at Bermuda's airport waiting for the last flights off the island.