Groundhog Day is upon us, with most Canadians hoping for a sign from the furry forecasters that this especially cruel winter will soon end.


Local tradition states that if groundhogs emerging from their dens on Feb. 2 don't see their shadow, spring is near.



First out this morning was Nova Scotia's Shubenacadie Sam — with a promising prognostication for winter weary Canucks.


Sam did not see his shadow, which means his call is for an early spring.


Ontario's Wiarton Willie and Pennsylvania's Punxsutawney Phil — the most famous groundhog of them all — will be out with their predictions shortly.


But regardless of what the woodchuck weathermen say, Environment Canada predicts the frigid temperatures that have gripped much of the country the past two months will likely persist through February.


Even provinces that have enjoyed unseasonably warm temperatures, such as British Columbia and parts of Alberta, are expected to feel the chill in the coming weeks.


And with the town of Wiarton wearing a coat of fresh snow today, any hopes of an early spring may already be dashed.