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WINNIPEG – Winnipeg’s weather-predicting groundhog Winnipeg Willow has forecast an early spring.

Staff from the Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre used Willow’s behavior as an indicator of the long-range forecast. Traditionally, the forecast is based on whether the groundhog sees its shadow.

“A wonderful prediction from Winnipeg Willow! Her very active winter behaviour predicts an early spring despite the cloudy weather,” the centre announced.

Winnipeggers shivering through a cold snap might appreciate the news.

The forecast for Monday calls for a high of -17 C with wind chill of -30. The warmest day on the seven-day forecast is that seventh day – a high of -10 C is forecast for Sunday.

Canada’s other forecasting groundhogs, Wiarton Willie in Ontario and Shubenacadie Sam in Nova Scotia, were also watched closely Monday morning.

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Wiarton Willie didn’t see his shadow, predicting an early spring, while Shubenacadie Sam saw his shadow, which means six more weeks of winter – a forecast that is generally true for Winnipeg in early February regardless.

READ MORE: Split decision from Canada’s famed groundhogs