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It looks like winter is sticking around a little longer — at least if Long Island’s famous groundhogs are to be believed.
Holtsville Hal and Malverne Mel both saw their shadows this morning, signaling six more weeks of winter for the region.
At the Holtsville Ecology Site and Animal Preserve, Hal made his prediction bright and early. At precisely 7:25 a.m., Brookhaven Town Highways Superintendent Daniel Losquadro announced that Hal had spotted his shadow, traditionally meaning spring will arrive late in 2025.
Meanwhile, over in Nassau County, Malverne Mel delivered the same news from Crossroads Farm, confirming that Long Islanders should brace for an extended winter season.
“In the year 2025, as an eyewitness to Malverne Mel — Long Island’s preeminent prognosticator of all prognosticators,” Malverne Mayor Tim Sullivan said. “So, I must announce that to skiers delight that there will be six more weeks of winter.”
The Groundhogs are in agreement — except one
Hal and Mel aren’t alone in their prediction — Punxsutawney Phil, the world’s most famous groundhog, also saw his shadow this morning in Pennsylvania.
However, Staten Island Chuck had a different take. The groundhog at the Staten Island Zoo did not see his shadow, forecasting an early spring for New York City. He might be the one to trust—according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Staten Island Chuck has an 85% accuracy rate.
How do Long Island’s groundhogs stack up?
According to NOAA’s historical accuracy tracking, here’s how the region’s furry forecasters compare:
- Staten Island Chuck – 85% accurate
- Malverne Mel – 55% accurate
- Holtsville Hal – 50% accurate
- Punxsutawney Phil – 35% accurate
Malverne Mel’s full prediction
Top: Screenshot of Malverne Mel’s prediction
