Punxsutawney Phil's Groundhog Day Forecast Awaited

The famous weather-predicting groundhog's shadow sighting will determine if winter lingers or spring arrives early.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 11:47pm

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On Groundhog Day, the handlers of Punxsutawney Phil, the famous weather-forecasting groundhog in Pennsylvania, will announce whether the rodent has seen its shadow upon emerging from its burrow. If Phil sees his shadow, it is said to indicate six more weeks of winter, while no shadow sighting is a forecast for an early spring.

Why it matters

Punxsutawney Phil's Groundhog Day forecast has become a beloved American tradition, drawing crowds to the small town of Punxsutawney and capturing national attention. The groundhog's prediction is taken seriously by many, though its accuracy has been debated over the years.

The details

Punxsutawney Phil emerges from a tree stump in rural Pennsylvania each Groundhog Day. If the groundhog sees its shadow upon emerging, it is said to signal six more weeks of winter weather. If Phil does not see its shadow, it is interpreted as a forecast for an early spring.

  • Punxsutawney Phil's handlers will make the annual Groundhog Day forecast announcement on Monday, February 2, 2026.

The players

Punxsutawney Phil

The famous weather-predicting groundhog in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, whose shadow sighting on Groundhog Day is said to forecast the length of winter.

Punxsutawney Phil's handlers

The group of people responsible for presenting Punxsutawney Phil and announcing his Groundhog Day forecast each year.

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The takeaway

Punxsutawney Phil's Groundhog Day forecast has become an enduring American tradition, capturing the public's imagination about the arrival of spring. While the groundhog's accuracy has been debated, the annual event remains a beloved part of the winter season.