When Phil emerges, which should be at some point during the day on February 2, onlookers will be watching where his gaze falls.

If the groundhog cannot see his shadow as he leaves, tradition dictates spring will come early in the US.

If he does see his shadow and he bolts back into his burrow, winter will continue for another six weeks.

While Phil’s debut on February 2 attracts adoring crowds, his predictions often do not come to pass, however.