It’s that time of year again when people wait with bated breath as Pennsylvania‘s most famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, makes his winter prediction. This year, a record number of people assembled at Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, on Sunday, as Phil awakened from his slumber to give the world the latest in predicted seasonal reporting. So did he see his shadow?
What did Punxsutawney Phil see?
Unfortunately for those looking to get a head start on their warmer season plans, Phil saw his shadow, projecting for six more weeks of winter. Last year, Phil claimed an early spring was on the horizon. Over the past 10 years, he has been nearly split, calling for a prolonged winter six times to four projected early springs.
How often is Punxsutawney Phil right?
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Phil has accurately reported the length of winter 30% of the time over the past 20 years.
In comparison, Staten Island Chuck in New York is accurate 85% of the time, and General Beauregard Lee is correct 80% of the time. Pennsylvania’s other groundhogs’ are somewhat successful — Octoraro Orphie (52.63%), Uni the Groundhog (47.37%) and Schnogadahl Sammi (38.89%).
What exactly is Groundhog Day?
The beloved Pennsylvania tradition dates back to 1886. Every year, on Feb. 2, the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club visits Phil’s official home in Gobbler’s Knob. Once there, they try to wake up their furry friend Phil. Once Phil comes out of his home, an immense crowd of spectators excitedly awaits his next move. According to legend, if Phil sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter, whereas if he doesn’t, then early spring is expected.
