BEIJING, Oct. 23 -- China's meteorological authorities issued a blue alert for heavy snowstorms on Wednesday.

The National Meteorological Center said heavy snow will hit central and northeastern parts of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region from Wednesday to Thursday, with five to 15 centimeters of snowfall expected.

In some areas, blizzards are expected to drop over 26 centimeters of snow, it said.

The center urged local authorities to take precautions with roads, railways, electricity infrastructure and telecommunications, and advised residents to reduce unnecessary outdoor activities.

China has a four-tier color-coded weather warning system, with red representing the most severe, followed by orange, yellow and blue.