If we can believe this “special” meteorologist’s prediction, spring appears to be just around the corner.
Shortly before 7:30 a.m. local time Tuesday, the Inner Circle made its annual forecast. The handlers of Punxsutawney Phil, Pennsylvania’s furriest meteorologist, state that, upon leaving his den, he did not see his shadow.
Based on an old German legend, the arrival of spring hinges on the actions of a furry rodent. It the rodent sees his shadow on Feb. 2, there will be six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t, then spring will come early.
According to records dating back to 1887, Phil has predicted an extended winter 102 times, but only 18 times has he predicted an early spring. Earlier records are not available.
Although the theatrics surrounding Phil’s forecast, which typically attract hundreds of people, are enjoyable, the actual prediction has already been decided. The prediction takes place about 65 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, on Gobblers Knob, a small hill on the outskirts of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, where Phil gets his name.
Potomac Phil, Punxsutawney Phil’s Washington, D.C. stuffed colleague, has also forecast an early spring along with six months of political gridlock.
Whereas the myth of Groundhog Day has become a popular tradition in the United States, it’s origins are shrouded in the mists of time. In an era when our daily lives were influenced by nature, myths such as this assures that our present is tied to our distant past.