Why Does America Still Change Its Clocks for Daylight Saving Time?
In the United States, nearly every state except Hawaii and Arizona adjusts clocks twice a year, moving them back by one hour in the fall. This practice, known as "falling back," happens at 1 a.m. on the designated Sunday, typically Nov. 2 this year.
Daylight saving time ends as the northern hemisphere approaches its darkest period, with daylight hours shrinking steadily since the Summer Solstice. In San Diego, for example, the sun sets as early as 4:56 p.m. on Nov. 2, and by Thanksgiving Day, the sunset time moves even earlier to 4:43 p.m.
Seasonal Sunlight Changes
- The sun rises at 6:07 a.m. after the time change, inviting those who enjoy daylight to soak up the sun early in the day.
- Daylight continues to shorten after the time change, culminating on Dec. 21, the Winter Solstice—the shortest day and longest night of the year.
- According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), on Dec. 21 the sun will set as early as 4:47 p.m.
“Daylight saving time is coming to an end!”
Thanksgiving's early sunset paired with heavy carbohydrate meals may encourage deep slumber, highlighting how changing daylight affects daily life.
What Would It Take to End the Tradition?
Ending the biannual time shift requires legislative changes at the state or federal level. While some states have expressed interest in remaining on permanent standard or daylight time, nationwide coordination is essential for a smooth transition.
Until then, Americans continue to adjust their schedules twice annually to accommodate shifting daylight hours.
Author's Summary
The biannual clock change persists due to tradition and legislation; daylight hours shrink each fall, leading to earlier sunsets and the eventual arrival of the year's shortest day.