Six More Weeks of Winter as Berkshires Brace for Brutal Cold

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow Monday morning, and if you live in the Berkshires, you're probably not surprised. The famous groundhog's prediction of six more weeks of winter seems perfectly timed with this weekend's bitter cold snap hitting our region.

Temperatures across Berkshire County are expected to plummet this weekend, with overnight lows dipping to around 2 degrees and wind chills dropping as low as 13 below zero. Saturday and Sunday's high is forecasted to reach 10F, with gusty northwest winds making it feel even colder.

Phil emerged from his burrow at Gobbler's Knob in Pennsylvania around 7:30 a.m. Monday to deliver his 140th annual weather prediction. According to tradition, if the groundhog sees his shadow, winter will stick around for another six weeks. If he doesn't, spring arrives early.

"There is a shadow here on my ground; six more weeks of winter abound," read the official scroll from the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club's Inner Circle.

The prediction comes as much of the Northeast remains locked in a prolonged cold spell. Weather forecasters are tracking a weakening polar vortex that could continue funneling arctic air into the region through February.

Phil has now predicted extended winter 110 times throughout his storied career, compared to just 21 early spring forecasts. However, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Phil's track record isn't exactly stellar, he's only accurate about 39% of the time.

For Berkshire County residents facing single-digit temperatures and dangerous wind chills this weekend, Phil's prediction probably won't change much. Bundle up, check on elderly neighbors, and protect those pipes. Whether you trust a groundhog's shadow or the National Weather Service, one thing's clear - winter isn't going anywhere just yet.

Spring doesn't arrive until March 20 - then it's mud season until Memorial Day lol.