A massive dust cloud enveloped Beijing on Thursday morning and the capital was blanketed by floating dust by noon.

The floating dust was brought in by strong winds from western Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and northwestern Gansu province on Wednesday, which moved eastward into the city.

The yellowish dust lowered visibility to four kilometers, down from 20 kilometers the previous day.

Floating dust is the mildest form of sandstorm, but it affects air quality severely, according to meteorologists.

The dust affected other parts of north China, including Hebei province, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and Tianjin municipality.

Residents were advised to take precautions such as covering their faces with scarves outside, and reducing outdoor activities.

Beijing's skies are expected to clear on Friday after the dust gradually falls during the night.