SHIJIAZHUANG, March 1 (Xinhua) -- North China's Hebei Province on Sunday activated a Level-IV emergency response for major meteorological disasters in preparation for incoming heavy snowfall.

According to the provincial meteorological observatory, heavy snow is forecast to hit areas including Shijiazhuang, Cangzhou and Hengshui from day to night on Sunday. Some regions may experience blizzard conditions.

Forecasters warn that the severe weather will disrupt transportation, urban services, and greenhouse agriculture.

Local authorities have been urged to closely monitor weather conditions, enhance risk assessment, and eliminate potential safety hazards.

China has a four-tier emergency response system, with Level I being the most severe response. ■