Why America Still Changes Clocks for Daylight Saving Time
Each year, most Americans adjust their clocks twice due to daylight saving time, except for those in Hawaii and Arizona. This year, clocks will move backward one hour on Sunday, November 3, marking the end of daylight saving time in most states.
The Time Change Tradition
The clock change occurs at 1 a.m. and is commonly called “falling back,” signaling shorter daylight hours as the northern hemisphere approaches winter's darkest days. Residents generally set their clocks back before going to bed on Saturday night.
Changes in Daylight Hours
Since the Summer Solstice, the daylight has been steadily decreasing. By November 2, the sun in San Diego will set as early as 4:56 p.m., according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Early sunsets and shorter days continue until the Winter Solstice on December 21, which is the shortest day and longest night of the year. On that day, the sun will set at approximately 4:47 p.m.
"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."
Tips for Embracing the Season
Sun lovers may want to take advantage of early sunrises, such as the 6:07 a.m. sunrise in early November. On Thanksgiving Day, November 27, the sun will set around 4:43 p.m. Traditional activities like eating carbohydrate-rich meals might encourage restful sleep as daylight hours shrink further.
Potential Changes in California
Ending the clock change tradition would require legislative action and coordination across states. Until then, this biannual time adjustment remains part of life.
"Americans in every state except for Hawaii and Arizona will be moving their clocks an hour back on Sunday, Nov."
Author's summary: Daylight saving time persists across most of the U.S. to align waking hours with daylight, but shorter days in winter highlight the ongoing challenges and cultural habits tied to time changes.