The nation is expected to enjoy a white Christmas this year as snow is forecasted to blanket most of the country on Saturday, the country’s weather agency said Friday.

According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, Seoul and most other parts of the country are expected to see heavy snow between the early morning and noon on Christmas Eve.

Some parts of the nation are expected to see up to 30 centimeters of snowfall, with Jeju between 10 to 20 centimeters and Seoul a more manageable one to three centimeters.

However, those in the southern and eastern coast of the nation, and parts of South Gyeongsang Province will not need to pick up a snow shovel on Saturday.

A cold spell is expected to persist over the weekend and up until early next week, sending the mercury to lows of minus 11 degrees Celsius in Seoul and the surrounding areas. Highs are expected to creep up anywhere between minus four to minus two degrees Celsius.

The cold snap is forecasted to grip the nation up to Tuesday, after which the mercury is expected to give a little.

“The fierce cold is expected to continue for the time being, so people should take care of their health and also take measures to prevent pipes from freezing,” said a KMA official.

By Robert Lee (robert@heraldcorp.com)