BEIJING - Heavy smog and fog will blanket a large part of China from Monday night to Saturday, the National Meteorological Center (NMC) forecasted on Monday.

Parts of North China will be choked by smog and the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River will see dense fog, according to the NMC.

A cold front will sweep these areas from north to south starting Saturday night and it is expected to disperse the smog and fog.

The weather observatory warned drivers of low visibility and advised people to stay indoors.