Meteorology and Myth: A Fair Candlemas.

This article delves into the cultural and meteorological significance of Groundhog Day, tracing its roots back to the Christian holiday of Candlemas and its connection to the pagan holiday Imbolc. It explores the folklore surrounding Groundhog Day and its supposed ability to predict the arrival of spring, emphasizing that these predictions are not scientifically accurate but can stimulate discussions about weather and climate. The article also discusses the historical and cultural origins of the Groundhog Day tradition and its diffusion from Europe to America. It raises questions about what constitutes a "fair" Candlemas and the paradox of global warming in relation to the Groundhog Day predictions, highlighting the role of atmospheric circulation and climate patterns in understanding the folklore. [Extracted from the article]