Live Radio

WATCH: Punxsutawney Phil makes his forecast on Groundhog Day 2020

FILE - In this Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019 file photo, Groundhog Club co-handler A.J. Dereume holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, during the 133rd celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. Pennsylvania's most famous groundhog is slated to reveal whether an early spring is on the way or if winter will be staying around. At sunrise on Sunday, Feb 2, 2020 members of Punxsutawney Phil's top hat-wearing inner circle are scheduled to reveal the furry forecaster's prediction. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)(AP/Gene J. Puskar)

The Associated Press

February 2, 2020, 7:30 AM

Pennsylvania’s most famous groundhog on Sunday declared: “Spring will be early, it’s a certainty.”

At sunrise on Groundhog Day, members of Punxsutawney Phil’s top hat-wearing inner circle revealed the cuddly oracle’s prediction — his 134th “prognostication,” according to the Pennsylvania Tourism Office.

Awoken by the crowd’s chants of “Phil!” the groundhog was hoisted in the air for the assembly to hail before making his decision. He then grasped the glove of a handler as a member of his inner circle announced that spring would come early this year.

The annual event has its origin in a German legend that says if a furry rodent casts a shadow on Feb. 2, winter continues. If not, spring comes early.

In reality, Phil’s prediction is decided ahead of time by the group on Gobbler’s Knob, a tiny hill just outside Punxsutawney.

Over the past five years — from 2015 through 2019 — Phil has predicted six more weeks of winter thrice and an early spring twice. According to records dating back to 1887, the Pennsylvanian prognosticator has predicted more winter more than 100 times, making this year’s forecast a rare one overall.

More Videos

© 2020 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

Related News

Recommended

More from:

Animals & Pets Holiday News Lifestyle News National News Trending Now Weather News
groundhog day live stream pennsylvania punxsutawney phil watch live
Federal News Network Logo
Log in to your WTOP account for notifications and alerts customized for you.

Sign up