BEIJING, March 14 -- A cold front hit north China on Saturday, dropping temperatures by up to 6 degrees Celsius, the National Meteorological Center said.

Strong wind will batter central and western Inner Mongolia, parts of Gansu and northern Shaanxi, while dusty weather will occur in southern Xinjiang and central and western Inner Mongolia.

Dusty weather, often seen in spring, could cause breathing difficulties for those with respiratory problems, and people with sensitive eyes and skin. Anyone with these conditions are advised to cut outdoor activities, the center warned.

Meanwhile, rain is expected to hit parts of southern China on Saturday and Sunday.