Easterlies, HPA ridge to affect PH weather during Holy Week

Several parts of the country may experience cloudy skies and brief rain showers this Holy Week due to the easterlies and the ridge of the high-pressure area (HPA), the state weather bureau said.

In its special weather outlook for Semana Santa 2026, the PAGASA said that from Monday (March 30) to Wednesday (April 1), the ridge of the HPA will bring partly cloudy skies over Cagayan Valley region, and the provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Apayao, Abra, Kalinga, Mountain Province, and Ifugao.

The rest of the country will likely experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms, mostly in the afternoon or evening, due to the easterlies.

From Thursday (April 2) to Sunday (April 5), generally partly cloudy to cloudy conditions are expected nationwide, with chances of isolated rain showers or thunderstorms, particularly over Mindanao and the eastern sections of the Visayas due to the easterlies.

PAGASA also said that light to moderate winds from the east to southeast will prevail over Northern and Central Luzon during the period, with slight to moderate sea conditions.

Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate from the east to northeast, with similar sea conditions.

The agency said the outlook will be updated if significant changes occur in the weather pattern.

It also advised the public to avoid strenuous outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to prevent heat-related illnesses such as fatigue, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion.

PAGASA further encouraged the public to stay hydrated, take breaks in shaded areas, wear light-colored clothing, use sun protection such as hats or umbrellas, and limit intake of alcohol and caffeine.

On March 23, PAGASA announced the end of the northeast monsoon (Amihan), signaling the transition to the dry season.

The observance of Holy Week, meanwhile, also carries a spiritual significance for many Catholics.

During Palm Sunday Mass at the Manila Cathedral, Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula urged the faithful to reframe the meaning of surrender as an act of faith rather than defeat.

Catholics are also encouraged to visit churches and reflect during the Lenten season.

Fr. Francis Gustilo, president of Don Bosco School of Theology in Parañaque City, said encountering Jesus requires no formal appointment, unlike meeting public figures.

The Paschal Triduum, or Easter Triduum, marks the final three days of Holy Week—Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday—which commemorate the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Easter Sunday falls on April 5 this year.—MCG, GMA Integrated News