Why Are We Still Changing Our Clocks for Daylight Saving Time?
In the United States, most states except Hawaii and Arizona adjust their clocks twice a year. This year, Americans will “fall back” by setting clocks an hour earlier on Sunday, November 3, at 1 a.m. This seasonal tradition marks the end of daylight saving time as the northern hemisphere approaches its darkest days.
Shortening Daylight Hours
Since the Summer Solstice, the hours of sunlight have been gradually decreasing. By November 2, the sun will set in San Diego as early as 4:56 p.m., according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Early sunsets and shorter days are a hallmark of the approaching winter.
"The hours of daylight will continue to dwindle, coming to an apex on the day of the Winter Solstice, Dec. 21, at which point the sun will set as early as 4:47 p.m., also according to NOAA."
On Thanksgiving Day, November 27, the sun will set even earlier at 4:43 p.m. This combination of early sunsets and indulgent meals may encourage a deeper, more restful sleep.
Impact on Daily Life
- Clocks are set before bedtime on Saturday to reflect the “fall back” change.
- The sun rises later, for example, at 6:07 a.m. in early November in San Diego.
- Daylight shrinking affects people’s exposure to sunlight during winter months.
What Would It Take to End the Time Change?
The practice of changing clocks has persisted out of tradition and coordination across states. Ending daylight saving time would require legislative changes at the state or federal level, often involving complex considerations about energy use, health, and commerce.
"You know what that means -- daylight saving time is coming to an end!"
For now, the biannual clock change remains part of life across most of America as we adjust to the shifting daylight through the seasons.
Author’s summary: Daylight saving time continues mainly due to tradition and legislation, marking seasonal shifts in daylight as winter shortens the days and lengthens the nights across most U.S. states.