I mean, a lobster is probably as accurate as any meteorologist...

Ok, that's not entirely fair, as meteorologists have computer models to draw from and all sorts of other scientific methods to ensure they're forecasts are as accurate as possible. A lobster has a brain about the size of the tip of a pen, so they're predictions may not seem as potentially accurate. But there are certainly times it feels like they're right on par.

However, Passy Pete, legendary resident of Belfast, has issued his seasonal weather prediction. I can't see why we should immediately poo-poo the idea of a lobster's forecast. He may not have science or a brain on his side, but he does delicious meat inside him that makes me want to trust him. I trust anything that tastes good on a plate.

Punxsutawney Phil doesn't hold a candle to Passy Pete.

Louise Wightman
Louise Wightman
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That dumbass groundhog only predicts one thing all year, and we act like it's the Holy Grail of weather forecasting. I'm not sure a drugged up groundhog is any way to predict weather. I'm not sure asking a lobster is either, but here we are. And since Passy Pete is at least a local, I'm willing to give him a fairer shake than Punx Phil.

Close-up of a lobster
ilmoro100
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This year, as the Belfast Area Chamber of Commerce brought out Old Pete to make his prediction, he let us know that we're probably in for an early winter according to News Center Maine. This isn't really the good news most of us were hoping for, but most people aren't necessarily expecting their forecast from a crustacean. Check it out:

How else can you predict winter in Maine?

My grandfather used to say the clouds in August were a good indicator. He believed if the bottoms of the clouds were very dark, that winter was supposed to be a bear. Some people also believe the height of a wasp's nest on a tree tells the story. The higher up, the more snow.

It's hard to say. I do believe that all the "folk" methods of predicting weather are at least worth looking at. They always say there's usually a grain of truth in every lie. You just have to decide how far you're willing to believe. By the way, Passy Pete is notorious for being wrong, so take that with a grain of salt. Or maybe some drawn butter?

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