It’s Groundhog Day, and New York City’s own weather-forecasting groundhog, Staten Island Chuck, is predicting six more weeks of winter.
Chuck, whose full name is Charles G. Hogg, saw his shadow Monday, signaling — according to tradition — that spring is still weeks away.
What You Need To Know
Staten Island Chuck saw his shadow Monday, predicting six more weeks of winter
His prediction aligns with Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania, the more famous groundhog whose shadow also indicated a prolonged winter
Chuck is ranked as the nation’s most accurate groundhog, with an 85% success rate
His prediction aligns with Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania, the more famous groundhog whose shadow also indicated a prolonged winter.
While Phil grabs the national spotlight, weather analysts say Chuck’s forecasts have historically been more accurate. Data from NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information ranks Chuck as the most reliable groundhog in the country, boasting an 85% accuracy rate over the years.
Despite the frigid forecast, New Yorkers may get a slight reprieve from the bitter cold of recent days.
Monday’s temperatures are expected to climb near the freezing mark, though brisk winds will keep conditions feeling chilly. A weak system may bring a few flurries Tuesday evening, but no significant snow is anticipated.
Groundhog Day, celebrated every Feb. 2, marks the midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.