Heavy rains forecast for southern New England

BOSTON (AP) -- Southern New England can expect a drenching as a spring nor'easter arrives bringing much-needed rain.

National Weather Service forecaster Charlie Foley says the bulk of the precipitation should occur Sunday evening through Monday morning.

Foley says areas around Boston are likely to see two to three-and-a-half inches of rain. Parts of northern New England could see small amounts of snow.

A flood watch will be in effect from 6 p.m. Sunday until Monday morning. Low-lying urban areas with poor drainage could see small amounts of localized flooding, Foley said.

Cooler temperatures will accompany the storm as the low-pressure system draws colder air down from Canada.

The approaching storm prompted cancellations throughout the region Sunday.

Police in Massachusetts temporarily halted a search for Caleigh Anne Harrison, a 2-year-old from Gloucester who apparently disappeared from a Rockport beach on Thursday. State Police spokesman Reid Bagley said heavy rains and poor ocean conditions would prevent divers from searching nearby waters. The search is scheduled to resume on Tuesday.

Foley said the rain is a welcome development following months of drier than usual weather. Total precipitation for southern New England is running several inches below normal for this time of year.

"We're down 7 or 8 inches," Foley said. "This won't completely wipe out the deficit but it will certainly help out."

The rain will also reduce the risk of brush fires. Much of New England has been under fire advisories in recent weeks.

Cooler temperatures will accompany the storm as the low-pressure system draws colder air down from Canada.