BEIJING -- Heavy snow is expected to hit Beijing over the weekend, ushering in a cold front across the capital city, authorities said Friday.

A weak cold front on Saturday will help disperse smog that has lingered in Beijing since Thursday, according to the Beijing Municipal Environmental Protection Bureau.

Following the cold front, Saturday night could first see rain, followed by a transition period of mixed precipitation before full-on snow over the weekend. A blizzard is also possible for western and northern areas of the city.

The snowfall, to end late Monday night, will be followed by strong wind and a significant temperature decline of 8 to 10 degrees Celsius next week.

From Nov 22 to Nov 24, the highest temperature during the day in Beijing will be minus 3 to minus 1 degrees Celsius, while night temperatures may drop to minus 10 degrees Celsius. Temperatures will gradually increase after Nov 24.

The public is advised to stay warm when going outdoors and be aware of icy roads.