Punxsutawney Phil Sees His Shadow, Forecasting Six More Weeks of Winter

Thousands Gather for the Annual Groundhog Day Tradition, Rooted in European Agricultural Practices

PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA — Punxsutawney Phil has spoken, and according to the famous groundhog, we can expect six more weeks of winter. The prediction came after Phil saw his shadow during the annual Groundhog Day celebration at Gobbler’s Knob in western Pennsylvania on Sunday.

A large crowd gathered to witness the event, which has become a popular tradition with roots in European agricultural customs. The ritual, which gained significant attention after the 1993 film Groundhog Day starring Bill Murray, continues to attract thousands of spectators each year.

According to the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, if Phil fails to see his shadow, it’s believed to signal an early spring. However, when he does see it, as he did this year, it’s said to mean six more weeks of winter.

Historically, Phil has predicted a prolonged winter much more often than an early spring. Efforts to track the accuracy of his forecasts suggest that the groundhog has been right less than half the time. Despite this, the annual event remains a beloved part of the winter season for many.