This year's first snow set to fall on the city

The city's first snow of the year will probably fall later this week, according to forecasters.

Pure snow is rarely seen in Shanghai, with the eastern coastal city usually hit by a wintry mix of freezing rain and sleet. But on Thursday and Friday, snow may blanket the city's streets, Shanghai Meteorological Bureau said.

Tuesday is forecast to be overcast to cloudy, with temperatures ranging between 4 and 7 degrees Celsius.

Weather conditions will be varied on Wednesday with a cold front from the north lowering temperatures to 1 degree, while wet and warm air from the southwest will bring drizzle and sleet.

Along with Thursday's snow, some roads will have icy stretches drivers are warned. Temperatures will continue to drop, down to zero degrees in downtown areas and minus 2 degrees in the suburbs. Temperatures on Friday will climb a little to 1 degree.

Saturday will see the rain return, forecasters said.