Tuesday, July 28, 2026
Science

Groundhog day explained: Why this furry forecaster still matters

Every Feb. 2, Americans turn to a groundhog to see whether winter will stick around. But Groundhog Day is about much more than shadows and more weeks of cold. The tradition began in 1886, when the first Punxsutawney Phil was crowned in Pennsylvania. The first official celebration came in 1887.

Groundhog day explained: Why this furry forecaster still matters
Image: Phys.org
Every Feb. 2, Americans turn to a groundhog to see whether winter will stick around. But Groundhog Day is about much more than shadows and more weeks of cold. The tradition began in 1886, when the first Punxsutawney Phil was crowned in Pennsylvania. The first official celebration came in 1887.

Originally published at Phys.org

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