Why America Still Changes Its Clocks for Daylight Saving Time
Every year, Americans—except those in Hawaii and Arizona—adjust their clocks twice to accommodate daylight saving time. On Sunday, November 2, clocks will move back one hour at 1 a.m., a tradition commonly called "falling back," usually done before bedtime on Saturday.
The Changing Daylight Hours
As the northern hemisphere approaches the darkest days of the year, daylight hours steadily shorten since the Summer Solstice, marking the official start of summer. 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).
If you enjoy sunshine, it's best to catch it early, as the sun rises around 6:07 a.m. By Thanksgiving Day, November 27, sunset occurs even earlier, at 4:43 p.m. Combined with heavy carbohydrate meals, this early darkness might encourage deep rest.
"Americans in every state except for Hawaii and Arizona will be moving their clocks an hour back on Sunday, Nov. At that point, time will automatically move backward to 1 a.m."
Approaching the Winter Solstice
The reduction in daylight continues until the Winter Solstice on December 21, the shortest day and longest night of the year. NOAA notes that on this day, the sun will set as early as 4:47 p.m.
"That day is also known as the shortest day and the longest night of the year."
Summary
Daylight saving persists as a biannual tradition to adjust to seasonal light changes, with the darkest days leading to earlier sunsets and later sunrises across much of the U.S.
Author’s note: Despite the inconvenience, changing the clocks remains a deeply rooted practice tied to natural daylight cycles and local laws.