Why are we still changing our clocks for daylight saving time?

Why Are We Still Changing Our Clocks for Daylight Saving Time?

America continues to adjust clocks twice a year, with most states shifting time except Hawaii and Arizona. This seasonal tradition marks the end of daylight saving time as daylight hours shorten in the northern hemisphere's darkest season.

The Time Change Tradition

On Sunday, November 2, clocks will move back one hour at 1 a.m., a practice commonly called "falling back." Typically, people set their clocks before going to bed on Saturday night to adjust to the new time.

Shrinking Daylight Hours

Since the Summer Solstice, the hours of sunlight have steadily decreased. 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 sunrises start at 6:07 a.m., offering brief daylight hours.

Further Changes Through Winter

Daylight continues to diminish leading up to Thanksgiving Day, November 27, when the sun sets at 4:43 p.m. Consuming large amounts of carbohydrates around this time can induce sleepiness.

The decline in daylight culminates on the Winter Solstice, December 21, known as the shortest day and longest night of the year. On this day, the sun sets by 4:47 p.m., as noted by NOAA.

"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." – NOAA

Sunlight lovers should take advantage of the limited daylight before it fades fully into winter darkness.

Author's summary: Despite shifting daylight hours prompting biannual clock changes across most US states, the tradition persists as a way to adjust to seasonal light variations and maximize daylight use.

NBC 7 San Diego — 2025-11-01