Groundhog Day 2016: Punxsutawney Phil sees no shadow, predicts early spring - The Washington Post Groundhog Day 2016: Punxsutawney Phil sees no shadow, predicts early spring The inside track on Washington politics. Be the first to know about new stories from PowerPost. Sign up to follow, and we’ll e-mail you free updates as they’re published. You’ll receive free e-mail news updates each time a new story is published. You’re all set! By Jason Samenow By Jason Samenow February 2, 2016 Follow @capitalweather The handlers of Pennsylvania's most famous groundhog predicted on Feb. 2 that we'll have early springlike weather. Punxsutawney Phil's inner circle revealed their forecast at sunrise. (Pennsylvania Tourism Commission) Punxsutawney Phil, the world’s most famous furry forecaster, failed to see his shadow Tuesday morning, meaning spring is right around the corner, or so the folklore says. The groundhog’s prediction came about 7:25 a.m. in Punxsutawney, Pa., with fair skies and temperatures in the mid-20s.

[ What better way to remember Snowzilla than with this awesome T-shirt? ] If this winter’s days truly are numbered, it will be remembered for both its mildness and brevity. Since December, most of the Lower 48 have experienced above-normal temperatures — the Blizzard of 2016 on Jan. 22-24, also known as Snowzilla, notwithstanding. Temperature difference from normal during January and February. (High Plains Regional Climate Center) [ Record-shattering December catapults U.S. to its second warmest year in 2015 ] But before packing away your winter coats, consider the last time the rodent called for an early spring in 2013, punishing cold and snow gripped the eastern United States deep into March. The prosecuting attorney in Butler County, Ohio, went so far as to seek the death penalty for Phil for “misrepresentation of early spring.” But then a Pennsylvania law firm came to Phil’s defense, claiming the Ohio attorney had no jurisdiction to prosecute the groundhog . Sources have long presented conflicting information on the groundhog’s accuracy. Phil’s official website claims he has “of course” issued a correct forecast 100 percent of the time.

But NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information notes that Phil’s forecasts have shown “no predictive skill” in recent years. AccuWeather finds the rodent has an 80 percent accuracy rate. But the StormFax Almanac reports that Phil has been right a lowly 39 percent of the time. Since his first prediction in 1887, Phil has seen his shadow 102 times and not seen it on just 18 occasions, including this year. Nine years are missing from the record , but Phil has issued a forecast without exception. NOAA says Groundhog Day originated as a celebration of the midpoint between the winter solstice and spring equinox. “Superstition has it that fair weather [at this midpoint] was seen as forbearance of a stormy and cold second half to winter,” NOAA writes in its summary of Groundhog Day background and folklore. 1 of 9 More winter! Groundhog Punxsutawney Phil sees shadow FacebookEmail Twitter Google+ LinkedIn Pinterest More winter!

Groundhog Punxsutawney Phil sees shadow Punxsutawney Phil, the world's most famous fuzzy forecaster, will pop out of his burrow Sunday morning in western Pennsylvania to tell the nation what our weather will be like for the next six weeks. Will we Post to Facebook More winter! Groundhog Punxsutawney Phil sees shadow Punxsutawney Phil, the world's most famous fuzzy forecaster, will pop out of his burrow Sunday morning in western Pennsylvania to tell the nation what our weather will be like for the next six weeks. Will we Check out this story on USATODAY.com: CancelSend A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 57 To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs More winter! Groundhog Punxsutawney Phil sees shadow Doyle Rice , USA TODAY 10:31 a.m. EST February 2, 2014 An analysis of weather data from the National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C., shows that Phil's forecasts are, on average, inaccurate.

Punxsutawney Phil is held by Ron Ploucha after emerging from his burrow Sunday on Gobblers Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa., to see his shadow and forecast six more weeks of winter weather. (Photo: Gene J. Puskar, AP) Story Highlights The crowd at Gobbler's Knob was disappointed But Phil doesn't have the best forecasting track record Phil isn't the only furry forecaster Punxsutawney Phil, the world's most famous fuzzy forecaster, popped out of his burrow Sunday morning and predicted six more weeks of winter, much to the disappointment of the crowd gathered at Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. According to folklore, if it's cloudy when the groundhog emerges, the critter will leave his burrow, signifying that winter will soon end. If it's a sunny day, Phil will supposedly see his shadow and, frightened, retreat back into his burrow, and winter will continue for six more weeks. Phil emerged at 7:28 a.m. ET to the cheers of thousands of cheering fans who braved temperatures in the 30s to hear his prediction.

Many wore knitted hats in the shape of groundhogs or had groundhog paw marks painted on their cheeks. Phil was brought to the podium by a group of local dignitaries known as the Inner Circle, all men clad in top hats and old-fashioned black frock coats. It was the 128th time Punxsutawney Phil had made his prediction. Punxsutawney is pronounced "Punk-sit-taw-nee." The Inner Circle brought out two scrolls, one predicting six more weeks of winter, one predicting spring around the corner. The crowd then chanted "Phil! Phil! Phil!" to wake him up. The Inner Circle knocked on his burrow, and he was brought out to a cheering crowd. Phil spoke in "groundhogese" to the Inner Circle and directed its president, Bill Deeley, to translate for him. Put into English, his prediction was: "A Super Bowl winner I will not predict, but my weather forecast you cannot contradict.

Why that's not a football but my shadow I see, It's six more weeks of winter it must be!" Despite the hoopla and festival atmosphere in Punxsutawney, Pa., an analysis of weather data from the National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C., shows that Phil's forecasts are, on average, inaccurate. "The groundhog has shown no talent for predicting the arrival of spring, especially in recent years," according to the center. "Phil's competitor groundhogs across the nation fared no better." The center found that from 1988 to 2012, the groundhog was right 10 times and wrong 15 times. In other words, 10 times, the national average temperature for the remainder of February matched what would be expected based on what the groundhog predicted. Last year, the furry rodent, also known as a woodchuck, did not see his shadow, so there should have been an early spring. Phil gets a mixed grade last year — the nation had a slightly warmer than average February but a chillier than average March.

Since 1887, the groundhog has seen his shadow 100 times (meaning six more weeks of winter), and not seen it 17 times to predict an early spring. There is no record of the prediction for nine years in the late 19th century. Although Phil is the most famous hog of them all, other prognosticating groundhogs include West Virginia's French Creek Freddie, Georgia's Gen. Beauregard Lee, Ohio's Buckeye Chuck, North Carolina's Sir Wally Wally, Alabama's Smith Lake Jake and New York's Staten Island Chuck (full name: Charles G. Hogg). Groundhog Day has its origins in an ancient celebration of Candlemas, a point midway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox, according to the climate center. Superstition has it that fair weather was seen as a prediction of a stormy and cold second half to winter, as noted in this Old English saying: "If Candlemas be fair and bright, Winter has another flight.

If Candlemas brings clouds and rain, Winter will not come again." Contributing: Elizabeth Weise 22210 CONNECT TWEET LINKEDIN 57 COMMENTEMAILMORE Read or Share this story: Groundhog Day weather.com It's official: Punxsutawney Phil decided Monday there will be six more weeks of winter. With Punxsutawney under winter storm warnings Monday and facing freezing rain, Phil emerged from his hole to thousands of cheering followers and saw his shadow. And when it comes to immortal, weather-predicting rodents in the Northeast, Punxsutawney Phil is the king. Weighing in at 20 pounds and boasting a 40 percent accuracy rating, Phil makes an appearance in Gobbler's Knob, Pennsylvania every Feb. 2 to decide our fates. (MORE: Top 11 Groundhogs to Watch ) While there are other forecasting groundhogs, ranging from Canada to the U.S., Phil is by far the most popular. As PennLive reports, last year's forecast was attended by 30,000 people, and millions of others across the country await Phil's predictions with bated breath. OK, maybe not with bated breath.

Immortalized in the 1993 film "Groundhog Day" starring Bill Murray, this is a holiday that doesn't take itself too seriously. “We do this for the fun of it,” Bill Cooper, who runs Punxsy Phil's 'Inner Circle,' told PennLive. “Groundhog Day doesn’t continue because it’s the most sound meteorological weather forecast. Groundhog Day continues because it’s fun.” Other furry prognosticators disagreed with Phil's forecast. In New York, Staten Island Chuck did not see his shadow , SI Live reports. However, there could have been some performance anxiety involved in Chuck's delivery. Last year, Mayor Bill de Blasio dropped Chuck's predecessor during the ceremony, and the groundhog died weeks later. Here are the other decisions made by famous groundhogs: Chattanooga Chuck (Tennessee) predicts six more weeks of winter. Malverne Mel (New York) predicts six more weeks of winter. Buckeye Chuck (Ohio) predicts an early spring. Dunkirk Dave (New York) predicts an early spring. Jimmy the Groundhog (Wisconsin) predicts an early spring. Wiarton Willie (Ontario) predicts an early spring.

Shubenacadie Sam (Nova Scotia) predicts six more weeks of winter. Holtsville Hal, of Holtsville, New York, had to cancel his appearance due to severe weather. MORE ON WEATHER.COM: Groundhog Day 2015 Groundhog Day 2016: Punxsutawney Phil sees early spring - CNN.com Groundhog Day 2016: Punxsutawney Phil sees early spring By Joseph Netto, CNN Updated 1:15 PM ET, Tue February 2, 2016 Chat with us in Facebook Messenger. Find out what's happening in the world as it unfolds. Photos: Punxsutawney Phil and his festive friends This is the famous Punxsutawney Phil in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a tradition in the United States and Canada that celebrates a groundhog's emergence from his winter den. Superstition holds that if a groundhog sees his shadow as he leaves the burrow, there will be six more weeks of winter weather. If the groundhog does not see his shadow, you can expect an early spring.

Native Americans also have traditions of animals predicting the weather, and groundhogs figure prominently in their religions and mythology . Hide Caption 1 of 10 Photos: Punxsutawney Phil and his festive friends The Easter Bunny has long been associated with Christianity's most important holiday. Rabbits are an ancient symbol of fertility, the moon and spring . In Germany, springtime celebrations including a magical egg-laying hare called Osterhase helped lay the foundations for Easter baskets full of eggs and other goodies. Hide Caption 2 of 10 Photos: Punxsutawney Phil and his festive friends Chicks have long been part of Easter celebrations in many parts of the world. In Lebanon, where the chicks pictured here were found, people traditionally buy colored chicks, dyed with food coloring while they are still in their eggs . Many animal rights activists frown on the coloring, as well as buying chicks as pets for Easter. Chickens can make fantastic pets, but chicks are difficult to raise. Hide Caption 3 of 10 Photos: Punxsutawney Phil and his festive friends Lambs are associated with the resurrection of Jesus Christ and often the Christian faithful, but have old testament significance from the Exodus story.

Jews and Christians often eat lamb while celebrating Passover and Easter , respectively. Polish Easter tradition includes sweets shaped like lambs, including sugar lambs and cake that's decorated to look like a lamb. Hide Caption 4 of 10 Photos: Punxsutawney Phil and his festive friends Easter ducklings, like their feathery friends the chicks, also have a history as Easter gifts. It's hard to resist the fluffy down of a 2-week-old duckling. Ducks make excellent and loyal pets, according to animal expert Marc Morrone , but they are difficult to care for as babies, and are often abandoned at local ponds after Easter. Hide Caption 5 of 10 Photos: Punxsutawney Phil and his festive friends Magical beasts have been part of Halloween since pre-Christian times. Hysterical fear of witches (said to turn into cats ) in the middle ages linked felines to the holiday. Hide Caption 6 of 10 Photos: Punxsutawney Phil and his festive friends Spiders are also associated with Halloween imagery, thanks in part to their historic association with ancient religions .

The myths surrounding gods and supernatural beings who can predict the future or plot fate are often associated with spinning, thread, weaving and spider webs. But after all, spiders can be scary -- some bite! -- and spooky imagery is part of the Halloween tradition. Hide Caption 7 of 10 Photos: Punxsutawney Phil and his festive friends Bats are an unmistakable hallmark of Halloween. An ancient tradition associated with the holiday is the nighttime bonfire , which lit up the night sky. Bats don't have ancient associations with Halloween, but the night sky does -- and that's often where bats can be seen. Hide Caption 8 of 10 Photos: Punxsutawney Phil and his festive friends Cobbler, seen here, is one lucky Thanksgiving turkey. He was pardoned by President Barack Obama on November 21, 2012, at the White House, and avoided a roasty demise. The holiday is a unique American tradition that the turkey has come to represent: For Thanksgiving, 2011, people in the United States ate an estimated 46 million turkeys .

Benjamin Franklin was so enamored of turkeys that he suggested it represent the country as the national bird -- but the rest of the founding fathers preferred the bald eagle. Hide Caption 9 of 10 Photos: Punxsutawney Phil and his festive friends Christmas is a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, but it was the worship of St. Nicholas that made reindeer significant to the holiday. St. Nicholas was born in modern-day Turkey , far away from the nordic stomping grounds of reindeer. But Dutch and German traditions of "Sinterklaas" shaped the idea of Santa Claus, a jolly old man who lives at the North Pole -- with reindeer. Then, in 1939, the story of "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer" was written by a Montgomery Ward department store copy editor. It hooked Americans on these adorable, wintery beasts. Hide Caption Pennsylvania groundhog 'forecasts' 6 more weeks of winter - AOL News Pennsylvania groundhog 'forecasts' 6 more weeks of winter Before you go, we thought you'd like these...

Groundhog Day 2015 Punxsutawney Phil See Gallery Pennsylvania groundhog 'forecasts' 6 more weeks of winter Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, takes a bite out of the gloved hand of handler Ron Ploucha during the 129th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. Monday, Feb. 2, 2015. Phil saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter weather. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Punxsutawney Phil, Pennsylvania's famous groundhog with an even more famous shadow, emerged from his burrow on Monday (February 2) and predicted six more weeks of winter, bringing groans from the assembled crowd who'd been hoping for an early spring. The rodent exited his subterranean residence at Gobblers Knob in the western Pennsylvania town of Punxsutawney around 7:25 a.m. The first official #PunxsutawneyPhil #Groundhogday selfie!!!

Groundhog Club handler John Griffiths, left, and co-handler Ron Ploucha, right, carry Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, on his rounds of downtown Punxsutawney, Pa., Sunday, Feb.1, 2015, the eve of the 129th Groundhog Day celebration on Gobbler's Knob. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Groundhog Club handler John Griffiths, left, and co-handler Ron Ploucha, right, carry Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, on his rounds of downtown Punxsutawney, Pa., Sunday, Feb.1, 2015, the eve of the 129th Groundhog Day celebration on Gobbler's Knob. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Groundhog Club handler Ron Ploucha holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, during the 129th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. Monday, Feb. 2, 2015.

Phil saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter weather. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Groundhog Club handler Ron Ploucha, center, holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, during the 129th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa., Monday, Feb. 2, 2015. Phil saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter weather. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Groundhog Club handler Ron Ploucha, left, holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, during the 129th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. Monday, Feb. 2, 2015. Phil saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter weather. (AP Photo/Gene J.

Puskar) Groundhog Club handler Ron Ploucha holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, during the 129th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. Monday, Feb. 2, 2015. Phil saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter weather. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Groundhog Club handler Ron Ploucha holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, during the 129th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa., Monday, Feb. 2, 2015. Phil saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter weather. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Groundhog Club handler Ron Ploucha, center, holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, during the 129th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. Monday, Feb. 2, 2015.

Phil saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter weather. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, takes a bite out of the gloved hand of handler Ron Ploucha during the 129th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. Monday, Feb. 2, 2015. Phil saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter weather. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Tressa Wright, left, and Martha Rupert, center, of Harborside, Maine, arrive at Gobbler's Knob in the rain to wait for Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, during the 129th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. Monday, Feb. 2, 2015. (AP Photo/Gene J.

Puskar) Ramona Ortega of Phoenix, Arizona, sits in a pile of snow in the rain waiting for Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, during the 129th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. Monday, Feb. 2, 2015. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Groundhog Club co-handlers John Griffiths, right, and Ron Ploucha, carry Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, on his rounds of downtown Punxsutawney, Pa., Sunday, Feb.1, 2015, the eve of the 129th Groundhog Day celebration on Gobbler's Knob. (AP Photo/Gene J.

Puskar) Groundhog Club co-handlers John Griffiths, right, and Ron Ploucha, carry Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, on his rounds of downtown Punxsutawney, Pa., Sunday, Feb.1, 2015, the eve of the 129th Groundhog Day celebration on Gobbler's Knob. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: Groundhog handler John Griffiths holds Punxsutawney Phil after he saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den.

Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground. (Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) Ramona Ortega of Phoenix, Arizona, sits in a pile of snow in the rain waiting for Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, during the 129th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. Monday, Feb. 2, 2015. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Groundhog Club co-handlers John Griffiths, right, and Ron Ploucha, carry Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, on his rounds of downtown Punxsutawney, Pa., Sunday, Feb.1, 2015, the eve of the 129th Groundhog Day celebration on Gobbler's Knob. (AP Photo/Gene J.

Puskar) Visitors to Gobbler's Knob stand in the rain waiting for Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, during the 129th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. Monday, Feb. 2, 2015. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Groundhog Club co-handlers John Griffiths, right, and Ron Ploucha carry Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, on his rounds through downtown Punxsutawney, Pa., Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015, the eve of the 129th Groundhog Day celebration on Gobbler's Knob. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: The crowd gathers during the Groundhog Day festivities where Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.

Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground. (Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: Punxsutawney Phil relaxes in his cage after he saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den.

If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground. (Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: The crowd gathers during the Groundhog Day festivities where Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground.

(Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: Punxsutawney Phil relaxes in his cage after he saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground.

(Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: Dr Missy Fraser, of Boston, Massachusetts, celebrating her 40th birthday, cheers as Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground.

(Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: Dr Missy Fraser, of Boston, Massachusetts, celebrating her 40th birthday, cheers as Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground.

(Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: The crowd cheers during festivities of Groundhog Day where Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground.

(Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: Groundhog handler Ron Ploucha holds Punxsutawney Phil after he saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground.

(Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: Groundhog handler Ron Ploucha holds Punxsutawney Phil after he saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground. (Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: Punxsutawney Phil relaxes in his cage after he saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.

Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground. (Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: Groundhog handler John Griffiths holds Punxsutawney Phil after he saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den.

If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground. (Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 2: Groundhog handler Ron Ploucha holds Punxsutawney Phil after he saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during 128th annual Groundhog Day festivities on February 2, 2014 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 25,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his den. Early spring arrives if he does not see his shadow, causing Phil to remain above ground.

(Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 02: President Bill Deeley (R) of Punxsutawney's 'Inner Circle' tap on the door of Punxsutawney Phil's burrow as he and groundhog co-handlers John Griffiths (2nd R) and Ron Ploucha (3rd L) entice Phil out during the 127th Groundhog Day Celebration at Gobbler's Knob on February 2, 2013 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. The Punxsutawney 'Inner Circle' claimed that there were about 35,000 people gathered at the event to watch Phil's annual forecast. Phil did not see his shadow and predicting an early spring.

(Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 02: Punxsutawney Phil climbs on the shoulder of groundhog co-handler John Griffiths (R) after Phil did not see his shadow and predicting an early spring during the 127th Groundhog Day Celebration at Gobbler's Knob on February 2, 2013 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. The Punxsutawney 'Inner Circle' claimed that there were about 35,000 people gathered at the event to watch Phil's annual forecast. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 02: Groundhog co-handler John Griffiths holds Punxsutawney Phil after Phil did not see his shadow and predicting an early spring during the 127th Groundhog Day Celebration at Gobbler's Knob on February 2, 2013 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. The Punxsutawney 'Inner Circle' claimed that there were about 35,000 people gathered at the event to watch Phil's annual forecast.

(Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA - FEBRUARY 02: Groundhog Punxsutawney Phil climbs on the top hat of his handler after Phil did not see his shadow and predicting an early spring during the 127th Groundhog Day Celebration at Gobbler's Knob on February 2, 2013 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. The Punxsutawney 'Inner Circle' claimed that there were about 35,000 people gathered at the event to watch Phil's annual forecast. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) Punxsutawney Phil is held by Ron Ploucha after emerging from his burrow Sunday, Feb. 2, 2014, on Gobblers Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa., to see his shadow and forecast six more weeks of winter weather. The prediction this year fell on the same day as Super Bowl Sunday. (AP Photo/Gene J.

Puskar) Groundhog Club handler John Griffiths, left, and co-handler Ron Ploucha carry Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, on his rounds through downtown Punxsutawney, Pa., Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015, the eve of the 129th Groundhog Day celebration on Gobbler's Knob. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Punxsutawney Phil is held by Ron Ploucha after emerging from his burrow Sunday, Feb. 2, 2014, on Gobblers Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa., to see his shadow and forecast six more weeks of winter weather. The prediction this year fell on the same day as Super Bowl Sunday. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Fans of Punxsutawney Phil cheer after Phil emerged from his burrow on Gobblers Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa., to see his shadow and forecast six more weeks of winter weather Sunday, Feb. 2, 2014.

This year's Groundhog Day celebration marks a winter that has brought extreme cold to stretches of the country wholly unaccustomed to it, as well as a snow and ice storm that paralyzed Atlanta and other Southern cities. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Up Next 2015 Groundhog Day Results: Early Spring Or Six More Weeks Of Winter? 2015 Groundhog Day Results: Early Spring Or Six More Weeks Of Winter? Cheryl P Did the groundhog see his shadow? Groundhog Day is February 2 and if you hate winter, you’re probably anxious to find out if Punxsutawney Phil will predict an early spring or six more weeks of bone-chilling cold and snow. It’s bad news for those who hate winter. Phil saw his shadow this morning, so we’re supposedly in for 6 more weeks of winter. Say it isn’t so. Shadow! Punxsutawney Phil predicts six more weeks of winter! #GroundhogDay — visit PA (@visitPA) February 2, 2015 The famous groundhog’s prediction is just hours away.

Visit PA reports that Phil will emerge from his home on Gobbler’s Knob on Monday at approximately 7:20 a.m. on Monday and hopefully he won’t see his shadow — that’s supposedly a sure sign that winter will last six more weeks. “According to folklore, if it is cloudy when a groundhog emerges from its burrow on this day, then spring will come early; if it is sunny, the groundhog will supposedly see its shadow and retreat back into its burrow, and the winter weather will persist for six more weeks.” In simple terms it comes down to this: No shadow = spring is on its way. Shadow = six more weeks of winter. Want to cross #GroundhogDay off your bucket list? Check out our Punxsutawney roadtrip pic.twitter.com/5AV48f15vA — PA Tourism PR Team (@patourismpr) January 29, 2015 February 2 marks the 129th time the groundhog will make a prediction based on seeing, or not seeing, his shadow. Every year, crowds of people brave the cold in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania to witness the big event.

If you feel the need to stand out in the cold to see the groundhog crawl out of a hole in the ground, bundle up. Accuweather reports that it will be frigid outside on Monday, with 14 degree temps and there is a possibility of snow in the forecast. Last year, Phil predicted six more weeks of winter and, sure enough, it was cold right up to the first day of Spring. The groundhog had good news to share in 2013 — he didn’t see his shadow and announced that Spring would come early. Most people can’t remember if that actually happened, but winter officially ended on March 19. If you are up early, you can watch the announcement live online. According to Groundhog.org, Phil will check for his shadow and make the official announcement on a live streaming webcast that starts at 7:20 a.m. ET — can you think of a better way to start your Monday? Didn’t wake up in time? Phil is a social groundhog, so follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and/or YouTube to find out the good — or bad — news.

The Groundhog Day results will be posted on Facebook and tweeted out on Twitter ( @VisitPA ) right after he makes his yearly prognostication. The whole event will be shared on the official Groundhog Day YouTube channel as well. Are you hoping for an early Spring or do you love winter so much that you are hoping the groundhog sees his shadow? Early spring or more winter? Phil will let us know Early spring or more winter? Phil will let us know It's that time again when meteorologists step aside for a furry rodent to make a weather forecast. Post to Facebook Early spring or more winter? Phil will let us know It's that time again when meteorologists step aside for a furry rodent to make a weather forecast. Check out this story on USATODAY.com: CancelSend A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 22 To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs Early spring or more winter? Phil will let us know Doyle Rice , USA TODAY Published 11:16 a.m. ET Jan. 30, 2015 | Updated 4:17 p.m. ET Jan.

30, 2015 Punxsutawney Phil, right, is held by Ben Hughes after emerging from his burrow on Gobblers Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa., on Feb. 2, 2010. (Photo: Gene J. Puskar, AP) It's that time again when meteorologists step aside for a furry rodent to make a weather forecast. Punxsutawney Phil, the world's most famous groundhog, will be coaxed out of his burrow on Gobbler's Knob early Monday to let an anxious nation know whether we'll have an early spring or six more weeks of miserable cold and snow. According to folklore, if it's cloudy when the groundhog emerges Feb. 2, the critter will leave his burrow, meaning winter will soon end. If it's a sunny day, Phil will see his shadow and, frightened, retreat back into his burrow, meaning winter will continue for six more weeks. The forecast for Monday morning in Punxsutawney, Pa., calls for cloudy skies and a chance of snow showers, but Phil is fickle, so who knows what he'll do?

No matter the outcome, it's best not to bet heavily on Phil: His forecast is no better than flipping a coin. Based on an analysis of weather data over the past 27 years, "there is no predictive skill for the groundhog," according to the National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C. The center found that since 1988, the groundhog has been right 12 times and wrong 15 times in matching his prediction with the national average temperature for the remainder of February. Groundhog Day mishap shadows NYC Phil has been right the past couple of winters: Last year, the groundhog predicted six more weeks of winter when he saw his shadow, and both February and March temperatures were below average across the country. In 2013, Phil didn't see his shadow, and the month ended slightly warmer than average. Since 1887, the groundhog has seen his shadow 101 times for a longer winter and not seen it 17 times to predict an early spring.

(There is no record of the prediction for nine times in the late 19th century.) Regardless of what Phil says, "climate records and statistics tell us that winter probably isn't over," the NCDC said on its website. "Climatologically speaking, the three coldest months of the year are December, January and February, so winter typically still has a bit to go when the groundhog comes out in search of his shadow on February 2." Last Slide Next Slide Although Phil is the most famous groundhog (aka woodchuck) of them all, other prognosticating critters include West Virginia's French Creek Freddie, Georgia's Gen. Beauregard Lee, Ohio's Buckeye Chuck, North Carolina's Sir Wally Wally, Alabama's Smith Lake Jake and New York's Staten Island Chuck (full name: Charles G. Hogg). Groundhog Day has its origins in an ancient celebration of Candlemas, the midway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox, according to the climate center.

Superstition has it that fair weather was seen as a prediction of a stormy and cold second half to winter, as noted in this Old English saying: "If Candlemas be fair and bright, Winter has another flight. If Candlemas brings clouds and rain, Winter will not come again." Punxsutawney held its first Groundhog Day in the 1800s. The first official trek by the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club to Gobbler's Knob was made Feb. 2, 1887. One club member was an editor of the local newspaper, who proclaimed Punxsutawney Phil to be the one-and-only weather prognosticating groundhog. The tradition took off from there.

(Photo: The Groundhog Club) 1229 CONNECT TWEET LINKEDIN 22 COMMENTEMAILMORE Read or Share this story: Groundhog Day 2013: 'Punxsutawney Phil' Sees No Shadow, Predicts Early Spring - ABC News ABC News Groundhog Day 2013: 'Punxsutawney Phil' Predicts Early Spring By ABC News WATCH Groundhog's Day 2013: Punxsutawney Phil Faces Stiff Competition 0 Shares Email An early spring is on the way, according to groundhog "Punxsutawney Phil." When the Pennsylvania groundhog emerged from his dwelling at Gobbler's Knob Saturday morning, he did not see his shadow. "And so ye faithful, there is no shadow to see, an early Spring for you and me," proclaimed Bob Roberts, one of Phil's handlers. According to folklore, if a groundhog emerges from its burrow and see its shadow, then six more weeks of winter weather is on the way. But if it comes out and sees no shadow, spring is expected to come early.

Punxsutawney, the Pennsylvania town that is home to one of the most famous weather-predicting groundhogs, Punxsutawney Phil, has been carrying on the tradition of Groundhog Day since the 1800s, according to The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club. Ever since the tradition began in 1887, Phil (and his ancestors) saw their shadows 99 times, while predicting an early spring only 16 times. There was no record for nine of the years. Other groundhogs like New York's "Staten Island Chuck," and Atlanta's "General Beauregard Lee" are also expected to make a prediction. ABC News' Alyssa Newcomb and The Associated Press contributed to this report. 0 Shares Same old Groundhog Day; Phil predicts more winter | Reuters Sun Feb 2, 2014 | 12:53 PM EST Same old Groundhog Day; Phil predicts more winter By Elizabeth Daley | PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pennsylvania PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pennsylvania Punxsutawney Phil, a famed U.S.

groundhog with an even more famous shadow, emerged from his burrow on Sunday and predicted six more weeks of winter, much to the chagrin of those hoping for an early spring. The rotund rodent exited his subterranean residence at Gobblers Knob in the western Pennsylvania town of Punxsutawney around 7:30 a.m. on Groundhog Day. The fuzzy forecaster made his appearance to the shouts of "groundhog," as eager spectators waited to see whether the groundhog - as the legend goes - would see his shadow and predict six more weeks of snow and freezing temperatures. If not, North Americans can expect an early spring. This year, Phil predicted that winter will stretch on. The annual Groundhog Day event, made more popular by the 1993 film comedy "Groundhog Day" starring Bill Murray, draws thousands of faithful followers from as far away as Australia and Russia. Phil's forecast of six more weeks of winter was bittersweet for some in attendance.

"I happen to be a positive person, so I do embrace the here and now and I will enjoy the next six weeks of winter with the best attitude and be happy to be alive and healthy with my good friends," said Lori Weber, 54, a real estate broker from Sewickley, Pennsylvania. Others came out early, braving drizzle and low-light, just to experience the event. Carrie Juvan, 37, of Cleveland, Ohio came with her father. "We are here having a blast because dad put it on his bucket list. I like snow but I am ready for the spring. He asked me about it months ago and I instantly said yes," she said. FORECAST REACHES WHITE HOUSE Phil's forecast even reached the White House, where President Barack Obama's official Twitter account reminded Americans to sign up for health care coverage under the Affordable Care Act. "#PunxsutawneyPhil says there's more winter ahead—make sure you get covered," the tweet said. Phil's New York counterpart, Staten Island Chuck, also saw his shadow on Sunday, forecasting another six weeks of winter.

New York City's new mayor, Bill de Blasio, was on hand for the event but wasn't able to keep a firm grip on the groundhog, who squirmed free of the mayor's gloved hands - a protective measure used since Chuck bit former mayor Michael Bloomberg in 2009. Chuck fell to the ground, eliciting a few gasps from the crowd, but he was quickly recovered by his handler. Groundhogs have been offering weather predictions in the tiny Pennsylvania town of Punxsutawney since 1887. After the movie was released, record crowds numbering as many as 30,000 have been drawn to the event, according to groundhog.org With a shadow powerful enough to lift spirits - or dash them - Phil has met with Pennsylvania governors and appeared on national television talk shows and New York City's Times Square JumboTron. In 1986, he even traveled to Washington to meet with President Ronald Reagan, the website said. Phil's busy schedule is packed into the months before groundhogs, also called woodchucks, go into hibernation - usually after the first frost, according to NationalGeographic.com.

Hibernation is less like a deep sleep and more like a coma, with the groundhog's heart rate plunging, blood scarcely flowing, body temperature dropping to a few degrees above freezing and breathing nearly stopped, said groundhog.org. (Editing by Victoria Cavaliere, Barbara Goldberg, Steve Orlofsky and Rosalind Russell) ADVERTISEMENT 1/2 Famed weather prognosticating groundhog Punxsutawney Phil has only one eye open as he prepares to make his annual prediction on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, on the 127th Groundhog Day, February 2, 2013. Reuters/Jason Cohn + 2/2 Groundhog co-handler Ron Ploucha holds Punxsutawney Phil in front of a record crowd estimated at 35,000 after Phil's annual weather prediction on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, on the 127th Groundhog Day, February 2, 2013.

Reuters/Jason Cohn + Groundhog Day 2015: Punxsutawney Phil sees shadow, predicts six more weeks of winter - The Washington Post Groundhog Day 2015: Punxsutawney Phil sees shadow, predicts six more weeks of winter The inside track on Washington politics. Be the first to know about new stories from PowerPost. Sign up to follow, and we’ll e-mail you free updates as they’re published. You’ll receive free e-mail news updates each time a new story is published. You’re all set! By Angela Fritz February 2, 2015 Follow @angelafritz Pennsylvania's most famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil emerged from his burrow and after seeing his shadow, predicted six more weeks of winter. (Reuters) Punxsutawney Phil, the world’s most beloved and furry seasonal prognosticator, saw his shadow on Monday morning (despite overcast skies), portending six more weeks of winter. The groundhog’s predication came around 7:25 a.m.

in Punxsutawney, Pa., with scattered snow showers moving through the region from the latest winter storm — conditions that are likely to continue with frequency if the plucky marmot is right. Last year, Phil also saw his shadow — the final nail in the coffin for what was one of the most brutally long winters in the U.S. The unrelenting winter dragged on through March in many places in 2014. Around D.C., many locations accumulated more than 30 inches of snow last winter, and Phil chalked another one up in the “verified” column. While no one questions Phil’s dedication to the seasonal outlook, his accuracy is an enduring source of controversy. Interactive: The great groundhog ruse is over In 2013, Phil issued a forecast for an early spring, but bitter cold and snow gripped the eastern U.S. into March that year. The prosecuting attorney in Butler County, Ohio, went as far as to seek the death penalty for Phil for “misrepresentation of early spring” before a Pennsylvania law firm came to Phil’s defense, claiming the Ohio attorney had no jurisdiction to prosecute the groundhog .

This year, the forecast suggests this winter will be remembered for its duration more than its intensity. Temperatures, so far, have been running close to or slightly above average across the Lower 48. Does Phil sense a dramatic shift to come, favoring snow-lovers and ski bunnies? Only time will tell. Temperature departure from average in degrees Fahrenheit from Dec. 3, to Jan. 31, 2015. (High Plains Regional Climate Center) Since the groundhog’s first prediction in 1887, Phil has seen his shadow 102 times (including this year) and not seen it on just 17 occasions. There are nine missing years in the record , but Phil has issued a forecast without exception. Phil’s official Web site says he has “of course” issued a correct forecast 100 percent of the time. But NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center says Phil’s forecasts have shown “no predictive skill” in recent years. AccuWeather finds the rodent has an 80 percent accuracy rate. NOAA says Groundhog Day originated as an ancient celebration of the mid-point between the winter solstice and spring equinox.

“Superstition has it that fair weather [at this midpoint] was seen as forbearance of a stormy and cold second half to winter,” NOAA writes in its summary of Groundhog Day background and folklore. Groundhog Day-like celebrations are held in several other regions of North America where other furry rodents make their predictions, including:

Question: Well, according to the most famous groundhog of all, Punxsutawney Phil, are we in for 6 more weeks of winter, or early spring?
Answer: Spring