It's almost time to look to Punxsutawney Phil to predict our weather for the next 6 weeks! On February 2nd, it's time for Groundhogs Day. Do you know what that is? Let's learn about it!
Once a year, people all over the US and Canada eagerly wait for a groundhog to rise from his burrow. The tradition is that if it's a bright, sunny day and he sees his shadow, we get 6 more weeks of winter. If it's a cloudy day and he doesn't see his shadow, it's time for Spring weather! Is there any science supporting this and is Phil correct with his predictions? Typically, no! But it's a fun winter tradition, nonetheless.
This unique tradition dates all the way back to 1841! It started when German settlers in Pennsylvania would celebrate Candlemans Day. Instead of looking towards a groundhog, they simply waited to see if the sun would come out that day or not which predicted the fate of the weather for the next 6 weeks. Through some turn of events, a groundhog made his way into tradition and we've been relying on him for the past 130+ years! In 1886, Punxsutawney, PA declared February 2nd as Groundhogs Day and we've been celebrating ever since.
This year, as we wait for Punxsutawney Phil to emerge, let's make our predictions on what he will see that day and if he will be correct on his findings. Leave your guesses in the comments!