Georgia’s Beloved Groundhog, Beauregard ‘Beau’ Lee, Is The Oldest Groundhog In Georgia’s History & Correct 80% Of The Time — Here’s His Winter Weather Prediction

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Today, February 2nd, is Groundhog Day–an adorable American tradition where a furry groundhog predicts (very scientifically, of course) if we’ll have six more weeks of winter or an early spring… based off of his shadow. And when you think of Groundhog Day, you probably think of Punxsutawney Phil in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. But did you know that Georgia has its own Punxsutawney Phil named Beauregard ‘Beau’ Lee? Keep scrolling to learn more!

Did Beauregard ‘Beau’ Lee see his shadow?

Yes. This year, Beau saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter, instead of an early spring. This actually also aligns with the famous Punxsutawney Phil’s prediction.

Who is Beau the groundhog?

Beau is our state’s official rodent prognosticator. He is the longest-serving Georgia groundhog, at 35 years old (a lifespan far longer than the average wild groundhog), and he lives in a groundhog-sized mansion fit for a king! The mansion, which is called Weathering Heights, is located at Dauset Trails Nature Center in Jackson, GA.

How often is Beau right?

Actually, Beau is one of the most accurate groundhogs in the U.S., with, according to WTAE Pittsburgh.

Beau is correct 80% of the time in his predictions, second only to Staten Island’s groundhog, Chuck (who is right 85% of the time). And Punxsutawney Phil is only right 35% of the time.

So… are we actually expecting 6 more weeks of winter?

Obviously a groundhog’s shadow isn’t exactly the, uh, most scientific way to predict the weather, even though it’s fun! So are we actually expecting a longer winter?

Actually… yeah. Of course, it’s hard to predict the weather that far in advance, but according to AccuWeather senior meteorologist Chad Merrill,

The statistics and the upcoming weather pattern will work in tandem and favor six more weeks of winter [in much of the country].

So if you were hoping for a break from all this cold weather… sorry about that. Keep your winter closet on rotation for right now!