WATCH LIVE: Punxsutawney Phil’s Forecast—Will Spring Arrive Early or Winter Hold On?

PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. — Punxsutawney Phil is set to deliver his annual weather prediction this Groundhog Day. The beloved groundhog’s shadow will determine whether winter persists or an early spring is on the horizon.

The forecast will unfold shortly after sunrise at Gobbler’s Knob, where thousands gather for the spectacle, celebrated as one of America’s most recognized traditions. The event is managed by Phil’s handlers, members of a club with roots tracing back to the late 19th century. They reveal if Phil has seen his shadow, leading to six more weeks of winter or a forecast for early spring.

In recent years, about 10,000 attendees have come to witness the festivities. They experience musical acts and fireworks while waiting for the crucial moment when Punxsutawney Phil emerges. Dressed in winter attire, many sport groundhog-themed accessories as they await the prediction.

Notably, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro dubbed Phil the “official meteorologist for Pennsylvania” last year. Despite his fame, Phil’s accuracy is a topic of light-hearted debate; a federal analysis rates his predictions at around 40% correct. Historically, he tends to forecast more winter than early spring, a practical stance given the region’s climate.

The tradition itself is rooted deep in European folklore, celebrating the midpoint between the winter solstice and the upcoming spring equinox. Groundhog clubs flourish across Pennsylvania, with some established as far back as the 1930s. Across the U.S. and in Canada, groundhogs have been embraced for weather predictions.

Phil’s fame skyrocketed with the release of the 1993 film “Groundhog Day,” starring Bill Murray. The movie not only popularized Phil but also inspired similar celebrations worldwide.

When not forecasting the weather, Punxsutawney Phil resides in a specially designed habitat near the Punxsutawney Memorial Library. There, visitors can glimpse his burrow. Phil is a spirited character; locals recall instances of him escaping into the library’s ceiling before ultimately being recovered unharmed.

According to folklore, if Phil sees his shadow, winter lasts six more weeks; if not, spring arrives early. The “inner circle” around Phil, composed of community leaders, ensures his care and manages event preparations.

Phil’s historical accuracy has been assessed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, indicating he has been correct about 40% of the time. Although his track record shows a preference for predicting extended winters, he has occasionally offered the promise of an early spring, most recently in 2024.

As the time approaches for the big reveal, excitement builds in Punxsutawney. Whether you believe in Phil’s predictions or not, the annual celebration has become a cherished winter ritual.