BEIJING, Oct. 10 (Xinhua) -- Rainfall returned to Beijing on Friday afternoon after a brief pause, exacerbating a lingering autumn chill that has driven temperature in this season to a record low, according to the municipal meteorological observatory.

As of 2 p.m. Friday, light rain was reported across Beijing. Although winds were mild, the mix of precipitation and low temperatures made the air feel distinctly chilly.

The city experienced a sharp temperature drop, with the maximum falling from around 30 degrees Celsius on Oct. 1 to just 10.6 degrees Celsius on Thursday, the lowest of this period since 1951.

The extended autumn rain began after the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday. It is expected to cease after Friday midnight, with temperatures rebounding to around 20 degrees Celsius on Saturday, according to weather experts.

However, meteorological authorities have warned that more rainfall and temperature fluctuations are likely in the coming week, advising residents to take necessary precautions. ■