Sun Feb 02 11:30:00 UTC 2025: ## US Government Ranks Nation’s Most Accurate Groundhogs
**Washington, D.C.** – In a fun, data-driven Groundhog Day competition, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has ranked the accuracy of weather-predicting groundhogs across the United States. Using 20 years of data (2005-2024), NOAA compared the animals’ predictions to actual March temperature averages.
The competition included 19 groundhogs, a tortoise, and even a prairie dog statue, considering predictions made over the past two decades. While the predictions are largely for entertainment, the rankings offer a lighthearted look at these quirky traditions.
Staten Island Chuck (Charles G. Hogg), residing at the Staten Island Zoo, emerged as a top contender, despite his infamous reputation for biting the New York City mayor. General Beauregard Lee, Georgia’s official weather prognosticator, also ranked highly. Lander Lil, a bronze prairie dog statue in Wyoming, completed the top three, showcasing the diverse ways communities celebrate Groundhog Day.
NOAA acknowledged the long-standing legacy of Punxsutawney Phil, the most famous groundhog, though he did not rank among the most accurate. His enduring popularity, however, remains a testament to the enduring charm of this annual tradition.
The full rankings and methodology can be found on the NOAA website. This unique competition offers a fun, albeit unofficial, look at the accuracy of these furry (and bronze) forecasters.
First Piper 