On February 2, 2026, Punxsutawney Phil made his annual prediction of what the next six weeks of weather will bring. According to Phil, more winter is on the way! But what does the science say?
Our maps of heat accumulation provide a more scientific look at how much heat has accumulated so far this year, and what's next. Our maps show that heat accumulation is ahead of schedule in much of the west, on time in the Midwest and upper Northeast, and behind schedule in the East.
According to predictions from NOAA's Climate Prediction Center, Phil may be right for parts of the Northern Great Plains - more cool temperatures are on the way! Much of the Southwest and Southeast should see above average temperatures in coming weeks. The Northwest, Midwest, and Northeast should see average temperatures.
To watch the progression of spring across the country, check out our spring forecast maps - updated daily!
