Cold waves will lead to sharp temperature drops in HubeiProvince startingfrom Feb. 18to 24, the provincial emergency management departmentsaid.

Temperatures are expected to plungeinmost parts of the province, with average daily temperatures falling by as much as 20 degrees Celsius.

Thefreezing rain and snow are expected toaffect most parts of Hubei, with rainfall ranging from 10 mm to 30 mm.

Local authorities have initiated precautionarymeasuresagainst freezing weather to mitigate losses,and have taken emergency responses to maintain the uninterrupted operation of transportation and safeguard the well-being of residents overall.(en.hubei.gov.cn by Zhang Yawei)