Pennsylvania’s world-famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, predicted six more weeks of winter after seeing his shadow this morning in the Pennsylvania Wilds.
“What started as a small gathering in 1887 has now evolved into tens of thousands of visitors from around the nation coming to Punxsutawney to participate in this time-honored Groundhog Day tradition. The economic impact of this multi-day event is tremendous,” Corbett said. “Regardless of whether Phil predicts an extended winter or early spring, tourists will have plenty of recreational opportunities in Pennsylvania to choose from in the coming weeks.”
Thousands of fans watched as Phil made his highly anticipated weather prognostication, commemorating 128 years of Pennsylvania’s unique Groundhog Day tradition.
According to holiday folklore, if the groundhog emerges in the early morning on Feb. 2 and does not see his shadow, there will be an early spring. If he sees his shadow, six more weeks of wintry weather are expected. The annual event that started with a small group of men known as the Inner Circle now attracts up to 30,000 visitors to Punxsutawney, located about 80 miles northeast of Pittsburgh.