US EditionHow Accurate Are Punxsutawney Phil's Groundhog Day Predictions?
Punxsutawney Phil’s annual prediction draws a large crowd at Gobbler's Knob, continuing a tradition dating to 1887 that determines if spring arrives early or winter lasts six more weeks.
- On February 2, Punxsutawney Phil will reveal his annual winter prediction at Gobbler's Knob, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, with onstage festivities starting at 3 a.m. and Phil expected to emerge around sunrise as the rest of the nation watches.
- Historically, Groundhog Day traces back to Candlemas, a Christian festival held on February 2, with German immigrants adapting the practice to a groundhog in Pennsylvania, dating to 1887 according to the Library of Congress.
- Marcy Galando said organizers are clearing snow after Sunday’s storm and do not expect as large an influx this year; Jumbotrons remain in use and ticketed events require entry.
- NOAA found Phil's forecasts matched national weather about 30% of the time, while Stormfax analysis shows long-term accuracy ranges from 35% to 39%, with Phil predicting early spring only 21 times.
- This year organizers warn attendees to consider safety given recent storms, with the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club clearing snow from Gobbler's Knob and maintaining the full festival schedule and venue hours.
22 Articles
22 Articles
The Progress
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