The Internet Thinks Groundhog Day Tradition Is as Ridiculous as You Do

By Margo Gothelf 2 min read

According to Punxsutawney Phil an early spring is on its way!

The 130^th Groundhog Day celebration was conducted early Tuesday morning in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. The groundhog emerged from his warm burrow and did not see his shadow.

After interpreting the groundhog’s shadow-less appearance, the Groundhog Club emcee shared, “There is no shadow to be cast! An early spring is my forecast!”

He also added, “Take your jackets off, you’re not going to need them!”

However, the crowd was a little hesitant towards the advice considering the temperature in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania clocked in at 22 degrees during the ceremony.

The findings were later confirmed by Canadian groundhog, Shubenacadie Sam, when he did not see his shadow either, shared NPR.

Although an early spring would be nice, Punxsutawney Phil is not known for his accuracy. Since 1988, the so-called forecaster has been correct 13 times and wrong about his weather predication 15 times, shared USA Today.

Overall, the little critter has seen his shadow 102 times and not seen it on 18 occasions, including this year, explained The Washington Post. Nine years are missing from the records.

Many individuals took to social media to share the outrageousness of this hilarious tradition.

https://twitter.com/tommychong/status/694561229449265153

https://twitter.com/bazecraze/status/694564243010490368

The verdict is in. #GroundhogsDay #SpringIsComing pic.twitter.com/jZsSSj7Jp8

— Wholesale Costumes (@WHCostumes) February 2, 2016

Imagine being picked up by a bunch of creepy old men in top hats while a large crowd cheers for you. #GroundhogDay pic.twitter.com/fodUw1mjH1

— Laina (@laina622) February 2, 2016

https://twitter.com/BadFatherHan/status/694486052589957120

Many also used it as an opportunity to honor Bill Murray’s classic film, Groundhog Day.

Well done Sky Comedy. #GroundhogDay pic.twitter.com/homMRJiV8M

— Simon King (@SimonOKing) February 2, 2016

It’s #GroundhogDay! Again. pic.twitter.com/EA1Bvqr4D5

— Tumblr (@tumblr) February 2, 2016

Hopefully, Punxsutawney Phil’s prediction will be accurate this year. Bring on the warm weather!