AP
An oversized rodent was apparently comfortable taking a look at the outside world this week — which, according to an East Coast legend, means … winter’s starting to wind down.
Indeed, it’s Groundhog Day (again) — and per usual, the good people of Punxsutawney, PA put on their top hats and old-timey clothing to trot out a literal groundhog — otherwise known as Phil — to see how skittish he is in early February.
AP
It’s a long-running tradition — basically, if this animal sees its shadow and goes scurrying away to hide … that means 6 more weeks of winter. If not, spring is fast approaching.
On Friday, the groundhog apparently was leaning toward the latter … which means it predicts spring is coming sooner than later. Whether that’s actually true or not is anyone’s guess — and if we’re being honest, nobody takes the big gerbil’s forecast seriously anyway.
With that said … Phil guessing on an early spring is somewhat notable — ’cause it’s the first time he’s landed on that for a while. 2020 was the last time it thought winter was ending soon … since then, he’s been “predicting” longer winters.
Launch Gallery
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BTW, there are other critters around the country that are due to make these sorts of calls today — in Ohio, they have “Buckeye Chuck” … and in GA there’s “General Beauregard Lee.”
TMZ Studios
These East Coasters sure do love their quirky customs and rituals. Anyhoo … happy Groundhog Day to all those who celebrate — even privately.
