Punxsutawney Phil Predicts Six More Weeks of Winter
The famous groundhog saw its shadow on February 2, forecasting extended winter in Pennsylvania's longstanding Groundhog Day tradition, despite its.
Key Points
- Punxsutawney Phil saw its shadow on Feb 2, signaling six more weeks of winter.
- Groundhog Day tradition dates to late 19th century in Pennsylvania.
- Predictions accurate only 40% based on historical weather data.
- Rooted in European lore, dismissed by meteorologists as chance-based.
On 2 February, the famous groundhog Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania predicted six more weeks of winter after seeing its shadow upon emerging from its burrow.
The event, a longstanding tradition in the town of Punxsutawney, marks Groundhog Day—a ritual where locals and visitors gather to watch the animal's forecast. According to folklore, if Phil casts a shadow, winter persists for another six weeks; no shadow signals an early spring. This year, the groundhog spotted its shadow, delivering the extended-winter verdict.
Organised annually since the late 19th century, the ceremony draws crowds despite its scientific inaccuracy. Records show Phil's predictions prove correct only about 40% of the time, based on historical weather data tracked by Punxsutawney residents.
The tradition, rooted in European weather lore brought by settlers, continues as cultural spectacle rather than meteorological tool. Meteorologists emphasise that groundhog forecasts align with chance rather than patterns.
Original Sources
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