Temperatures in the Philippines continue to rise as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) declares that a mature and strong" El Nino has arrived. The agency goes on to report that the phenomenon will continue to intensify well into the fourth quarter of the year.
The highest temperature in Manila this year has been recorded at 36.4 degrees Celsius on March 13th. Details of the PAGASA report indicate an actual heat index of 39.4 degrees. Temperatures are expected to rise higher from August to November and Filipinos are advised to prepare for extreme weather conditions. El Nino is expected to mellow down in December and gradually dissipate early in 2016.
The weather phenomenon is reported to be the strongest in 65 years according to U.S. government scientists and is said to affect at least 32 provinces in the Philippines including Isabela, Aurora, Batangas, Cavite, Rizal, Quezon, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Romblon, Albay, Catanduanes, Masbate, Sorsogon, Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Bohol, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Southern Leyte , Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Southern Cotabato, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, Basilan, Maguindanao and Sulu.
Meanwhile, Filipinos and tourists visiting the country are enjoying the extended summer weather by looking for pursuits otherwise unavailable during this time of year in normal weather patterns. [Beach resorts](http://www.philippinetraveler.com/costa-marina-beach-resort/) on islands like Boracay, Cebu, Bohol and Samal continue to enjoy heightened visitor arrivals even as summer in the Western Hemisphere winds down.
The extended beach weather, however, may affect the overall health of residents in affected areas. The Department of Health (DOH) has warned the public against diseases related to water scarcity such as diarrhea and skin diseases. Furthermore, the department also expressed concern over red tide blooms and disorders brought about by intense heat. The public is encouraged to be vigilant about water consumption and conservation as well as to avoid going out in extreme weather.
VIDEO: [Costa Marina Beach Resort, Samal Island, Philippines](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9HiQZMHZI0)
