A dramatic temperature drop is expected across most parts of China over the next nine days, the nation's Meteorological Administration said on Thursday.

The cold air will also bring rain and gales, it said.

On Thursday and Friday, a cold front and strong winds will see temperatures fall in Inner Mongolia, northwestern China, Tibet and Guizhou by up to 10?C, the report said.

Southern areas, including Hunan, Jiangxi, Hubei and Anhui, will see mild to heavy rainfall due to the cold front.

Meanwhile, another cold snap is on the way and is expected to pass through the country on Sunday and Monday, further dragging down the average temperature.

After the drop in temperature, most northern parts of the country will be hit by snowfalls, while southern areas will be affected by rain before Nov 23.

The meteorological administration asked local authorities to prepare for falling temperatures.