Buckeye Chuck, Ohio's favorite weather-predicting groundhog, will emerge from his hibernation Tuesday (February 2) to declare if winter is here to stay or if spring is right around the corner. For the first time in its 41-year history, the annual event will be virtual, with a live broadcast beginning at 7 a.m.
For those unfamiliar with the Groundhog Day tradition, the legend goes like this: If Buckeye Chuck emerges from hibernation and sees his shadow at sunrise, Ohioans will have to endure six more weeks of winter. So for anyone hoping to see signs of spring sooner rather than later, cross your fingers and pray to the groundhog gods for a cloudy Tuesday morning.
A native of Marion, Buckeye Chuck has been the state's official groundhog since 1979 after a proclamation from the Ohio legislature. Each year, the beloved Buckeye emerges from his den to fulfill his civic duty and shed light (or shadow) on the future.
Unfortunately, the pandemic is keeping Buckeye Chuck from meeting his fans in-person this year. But don't worry! Groundhog groupies can still tune in to the action from 7-8 a.m. via live stream on Buckeye Chuck's Facebook page, on air at AM-1490 WMRN, or on WMRN-AM's channel on the iHeartRadio app.
Photo: iHeartMedia Staff