China experienced a cold and dry February, with temperatures well below average and minimal rainfall across the country. As March begins, forecasts predict a sharp drop in temperatures and an increase in precipitation, according to China Meteorological Administration.

Throughout February, China's average temperature was recorded at — 2.2 C, 0.7 C lower than usual for this time of year, said Xiao Chan, deputy director of the National Climate Center.

Most regions, except for southwestern China and Xizang autonomous region, saw temperatures fall by 0.5 to 2 C below average. In some areas, such as western and northern China, temperatures dipped by as much as 4 C, Xiao said at a news conference on Friday.

Three cold air outbreaks occurred in February, with the most concerning hitting central and eastern China from Feb 7 to 9, causing temperature drops of 5 C to 12 C.

Meanwhile, precipitation was below average, with the national total reaching only 10 millimeters, 30.4 percent less than usual. Regions like the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River and northwestern China saw rainfall reductions of 50 percent to 90 percent.

"Tianjin and Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region recorded their lowest February rainfall in history, while Beijing and Jiangsu saw their second-lowest," Xiao said, adding that the lack of rain worsened drought conditions in southern China.

In the first three days of March, a cold wave is expected to sweep across central and eastern China, bringing temperature drops of 6 C to 10 C, and some areas will experience declines of up to 12 C to 16 C. Rain, sleet and snow are forecast for northwestern, northern and central China. Beijing will see overcast skies, light rain or sleet, and gusty winds, with temperatures gradually falling, Xiao said.

During the upcoming Two Sessions — the annual meetings of the nation's top legislative and political advisory bodies — northern China is expected to see mostly clear to cloudy weather with limited rainfall, while southern regions will see frequent overcast and rainy conditions, he said.

Generally speaking, the two sessions are held annually in Beijing in early March.

In southern China, prolonged periods of low temperatures, rain, and limited sunlight could affect agriculture, posing risks of water-logging, landslides and mudslides in some areas. Farmers are advised to take precautions to protect crops and livestock, according to CMA.

Meanwhile, the 2024 China Climate Bulletin was released at the news conference.

"China's average annual temperature hit a new historic high amid global warming. The climate in 2024 is highlighted by anomalies and extreme weather events," Xiao said.

The overall climate is warmer and wetter than usual, with prominent flooding and rainstorm disasters, according to the bulletin. Typhoon activity was fewer early in the year but increased later, with strong typhoons causing severe wind and rain damage, it said.

"Strong convective weather was less frequent, but localized extreme rainfall has led to severe disasters," Xiao said.

zhaoyimeng@chinadaily.com.cn