Punxsutawney Phil will weigh in Sunday on Pennsylvania’s weather for the next six weeks, but the Old Farmer’s Almanac is one step ahead.
The 1792 long-range weather publication predicts a warm, rainy season for the Keystone State.
Though temperatures are predicted to align with typical patterns in part of the nearby Ohio Valley, our state of Pennsylvania — along with much of the country — is expected to see a warmer-than-usual spring, according to the almanac.
Rainfall in Pennsylvania will align with or slightly above average levels, the almanac predicts.
Between temperature and rainfall, the almanac claims conditions are prime for Pennsylvania gardeners — an assessment that goes back to the publication’s roots.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac was first published more than 200 years ago by Robert B. Thomas. As the title implies, the book was meant as a guide for farmers — offering predictions about weather patterns and corresponding planting schedules.
Unlike daily weather meteorologists, the almanac offers long-range seasonal predictions, suggesting whether temperature and precipitation levels will deviate from 30-year averages. The almanac says it compares solar patterns and historical conditions with current solar activity to make its determinations.
The almanac claims to accurately predict weather about 80% of the time.
However, the almanac conceded its 2024 winter forecast proved 64% accurate. And a University of Illinois study of the Farmer’s Almanac — a separate but similar publication launched in 1818 — noted a 52% accuracy.
But as patches of snow color front yards and ice chunks drift along rivers, Western Pa. is not done with winter yet.
After several days of sub-zero temperatures and snow earlier this month, the Pittsburgh area has seen a reprieve from the icy conditions this week, with temperatures reaching into the 40s.
A 70% chance of rain is forecast for the region Friday night as temperatures dip below 30 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. The conditions could result in patches of dense fog.