Hoping for an early spring? Wiarton Willie’s prediction says you’re in luck

© Hannah Yoon/The Canadian Press Former Wiarton Willie sits in his cage in Wiarton, Ont., on Feb.2, 2018, when he predicted six more weeks of winter.

If you’re hoping to pack away your winter coat sooner than later, there’s good news. 

Wiarton Willie, Ontario’s weather forecasting rodent, predicted an early spring on Thursday when he didn’t see his shadow. 

This year’s Groundhog Day forecast was officially announced at 8:07 a.m. from Wiarton, Ont. in the South Bruce Peninsula. 

Crowds gathered in freezing temperatures to see if the famous Willie will see his shadow — and what that means for the weeks ahead. Wiarton Willie whispers into the mayor’s ears to make his report. 

On Feb. 2 each year, eyes turn to Wiarton Willie to see if he’ll see his shadow — meaning 6 more weeks of winter — or no shadow, predicting an early spring. This year marks 67 years of the tradition.

Nova Scotia’s beloved groundhog Schubenacadie Sam saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter. 

In Pennsylvania, Punxsutawney Phil also saw his shadow Tuesday morning, gearing up for a long winter ahead.  

Last year, Groundhog Day predictions clashed between Wiarton Willie, who called for an early spring, and Shubenacadie Sam, who called for a long, cold winter.