The Alternative Press

The nor'easter expected to hit the area on Sunday could bring several inches of rain to Essex, Union and Morris counties, and the National Weather Service has issued a flood watch in effect from Sunday afternoon through Monday morning.

According to the National Weather Service, rainfall with a cold front passing through the area tonight is expected to be less than a half inch, but the front will stall over the area on Sunday and bring with it heavy rain and intensifying coastal storms.

Rainfall is expected to begin Sunday morning and become heavy later Sunday afternoon, with the heaviest rain on Sunday night. Hourly rainfall could approach an inch per hour, with total rainfall expected to be between two and half and three and a half inches, with locally higher amounts, according to the National Weather Service.

Weather experts say the heavy rainfall could cause significant flooding due to the hard, dry ground. Areas with poor drainage and small streams are most likely to be affected, as well as storm drains that have not yet been cleared of winter debris. Officials say main rivers are unlikely to experience flooding.

The New Jersey State Police have issued a warning that high winds also could be a factor in Sunday's storm. To monitor local conditions, visit http://www.weather.gov/phi.