(updated February 2, 2019)
THE VERDICT IS IN: Punxsutawney Phil says SPRING is right around the corner. Phil did not see his shadow when he emerged from his burrow at Gobber’s Knob.
Every February 2, crowds of people gather at Gobbler’s Knob, Pennsylvania to see the official prognostication on whether winter will linger, or Spring will arrive early.
According to legend, if the 20-pound groundhog emerges and doesn’t see his shadow, we can expect warmer temperatures and the arrival of an early spring. But if sees his shadow, the United States can expect six more weeks of winter weather according to legend.
Phil has been forecasting since 1887. Just like any good forecaster, Phil keeps track of his forecasts and accuracy. Here’s a look at what Phil has predicted in recent years.
To determine just how accurate he is, the National Weather Service compared U.S. national temperatures with Phil’s forecasts. On average, Phil has gotten it right 50% of the time over the past 10 years, according to the crew at the NWS.
SEE RESULT FROM POLL! What did others think before Phil made his prediction?
LOOKING AHEAD: Tomorrow is Groundhog day! So what are your thoughts? Will Punxsutawney Phil see his shadow and predict six more weeks of winter? Answer our poll below. We'll read the results LIVE on air while we cover Phil's big event, tomorrow morning beginning at 7:30 ET
— WeatherNation (@WeatherNation) February 1, 2019
The forecast for this year called for clouds building over Punxsutawney, PA, which led us to believe Phil would not see a shadow this year.