Winnipeg Willow predicts an early spring on Groundhog Day, while Manitoba Merv says more winter to come

It should be an early spring, according to Winnipeg’s weather-predicting groundhog.

Winnipeg Willow refused to leave her cage to go outside on a chilly Saturday morning, and failed to see her shadow. The temperature was around -25 C, -36 C with the wind chill. Willow has a 100 per cent accuracy rate so far, but that success is based on one winter’s prediction.

Manitoba Merv, however, predicts six more weeks of winter. Staff at Oak Hammock Marsh say he saw a faint shadow before heading back into his den.

Wiarton Willie, Ontario’s weather-predicting groundhog, also failed to see his shadow. However, Nova Scotia's Shubenacadie Sam did see it, as did Quebec’s Fred.

Pennsylvania's Punxsutawney Phil is generally regarded as the groundhog of record, and his prediction this morning is for an early spring as well.

- with CTV National News