The combination of a cold front and Hurricane Arthur is leading to a dire flooding situation along the South Coast. Heavy rain developed during the morning and continued through the afternoon, with New Bedford and Fairhaven particularly hard hit. Rain totals at the New Bedford Airport were approaching 6.0" at 630 pm, and the National Weather Service declared a Flash Flood Emergency for the South Coast. Many roads along the South Coast were impassable in the afternoon and evening.

With moderate to heavy rain expected to continue through the evening, it is possible that the New Bedford area could break the all-time daily rainfall record of 7.28", set on August 9, 1992. Records for the New Bedford area date back to 1893.

The wind will increase to 20-35 mph near Buzzards Bay tonight as weakening Hurricane Arthur passes east of Nantucket. Saturday will be a perfect day to dry out, with low humidity and a gusty west-northwest breeze. Highs will be in the low to mid 80s with plenty of sunshine.

Aside from flooded basements, there may be another lingering affect from the storm. High surf and dangerous rip currents are possible at area beaches - especially on Saturday. The surf will gradually subside on Sunday - another very nice day.

Warm and humid weather returns early next week. Highs will be in the 80s Monday and Tuesday, with the chance of showers or thunderstorms by late Tuesday afternoon.

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