BEIJING, Oct. 27  -- A strong cold wave is expected to sweep across China over the next three days, bringing gales and lowering temperatures, the country's meteorological authority forecast on Thursday.

Temperatures in parts of Gansu, Ningxia, Guizhou and Hunan will plunge by up to 12 degrees Celsius, according to a statement on the website of the National Meteorological Center (NMC).

The lowest temperatures in parts of north China are likely to fall below zero degrees Celsius from Friday through Sunday.

Freezing wind will sweep across areas along the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze river.

Rainfall and snow flurries are forecast for central and eastern regions. Rainy weather will persist in areas along the Huai river, the Yellow river and the Yangtze river.

The NMC suggested residents keep warm and pay attention to road safety in cold weather.