When looking for weather forecasts, most people turn their attention toward the National Weather Service, a local meteorologist, or their favorite weather app. Weather forecasts in the modern era are about 80% accurate up to 7 days out. Forecasting what the weather will look like in a few weeks or months is quite a bit harder, but turning toward sources like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration‘s Climate Prediction Center can provide decently accurate general forecasts.
Instead of relying purely on science, some people choose to focus on folklore to predict the weather. People have been relying on signs in the wild to predict the incoming weather for centuries. Forecasting groups like the Farmers’ Almanac use a mix of science and folklore to provide forecasts for the upcoming year so farmers and gardeners know what to plant and when to plant it, offering up what could be vital information for the year ahead.
Farmers, homesteaders, and general weather enthusiasts have kept an eye on birds, plants, insects, and much more to give a general idea of what the upcoming winter will look like far ahead of time. Some of these concepts have roots in science while some come completely from folklore. No matter the case, keeping an eye out for them can be a fun way to get excited for the weather. Here are 4 ways rodents can help forecast a cold and snowy winter according to the Farmers’ Almanac.
4 Ways Rodents Can Predict A Cold And Snowy Winter According To The Farmers’ Almanac
- Mice chewing furiously to get inside your home can be an indication of a hard winter ahead.
- Muskrats burrowing holes high on the river bank are a sign that they’re preparing for a cold and snowy winter.
- According to the Farmers’ Almanac, squirrels frantically gathering nuts early indicates they’re fortifying for a hard winter.
- If the iconic Punxsutawney Phil groundhog sees his shadow on February 2nd, another 6 weeks of winter are ahead.
