On October 17, a reporter with China News Service learned from the China Meteorological Administration that from October 17 to 18, a significant rainfall event is expected across the central and eastern regions. Areas such as Shandong and Henan may experience heavy downpours. Additionally, a new wave of strong cold air is set to arrive, bringing gusty winds and temperature drops to most areas north of the Yangtze River, with localized temperature declines exceeding 14°C.

According to forecasts from the Central Meteorological Observatory, widespread precipitation is anticipated in the central and eastern regions. Specifically, from 8 AM on October 17 to 8 AM on October 18, rainfall is expected in central and southern Shandong, western and central Shanxi, and northwestern and southern Henan, as well as northern Jiangsu, northern Anhui, eastern Hubei, and northern Hunan. Certain areas in southern Shandong, southern Henan, and northern Hunan may experience heavy rain, with parts of southern Shandong facing severe downpours of 100-120 mm, and hourly rainfall rates reaching 20-40 mm, with some locations exceeding 50 mm, as noted in a heavy rain alert issued by the Central Meteorological Observatory on October 17 at 6 AM.

Furthermore, during this period, parts of northwestern Xinjiang and southeastern Tibet may encounter moderate to heavy snow or sleet, with localized blizzard conditions expected in northwest Xinjiang.

Meteorological experts are advising the public to stay alert as the widespread rain and snow will reach its peak on October 17, potentially resulting in poor visibility and slippery road conditions, which could impact transportation.

In addition to the rain, a strong cold front will also make its presence felt. From October 18 to 19, most areas north of the Yangtze River will be affected by strong winds and dropping temperatures due to this cold air. Temperatures in the eastern parts of the northwest, northeastern regions, central and eastern North China, eastern Huanghuai, Jianghuai, eastern Jianghan, and northeastern Jiangnan are expected to drop between 8 to 10°C, while parts of northern North China and central-southern northeast China may see declines of 10 to 12°C, with some areas experiencing drops over 14°C. Regions including North China, northeast China, and Huanghuai may also witness winds at speeds of 4 to 6 levels, with gusts reaching 7 to 8 levels, and the eastern sea areas facing winds of 7 to 8 with gusts up to 8 to 9 levels.

Following this round of cooling, temperatures in northern North China are predicted to drop below 10°C on October 19, with areas in central-eastern Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang, and Jilin likely seeing temperatures below 5°C. On October 20, the lowest temperatures in northern North China are expected to fall below 0°C, with parts of central-eastern Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang, Jilin, and northern Liaoning possibly dipping to around -5°C.

As we approach the weekend, major cities such as Harbin, Changchun, Shenyang, Beijing, Jinan, and Zhengzhou are forecasted to hit new low temperatures since the start of autumn. The public is advised to stay informed about temperature changes and to take precautions to stay warm, as the cold weather may increase the risk of catching a cold.