Katie Daly
Updated on: October 12, 2024 5:15 am GMT
As the leaves turn and the days grow shorter, many people are preparing for an annual ritual: changing their clocks. This year, daylight saving time (DST) in the United States will end on Sunday, November 3. At 2 a.m., clocks will roll back one hour, marking the transition back to standard time. Here’s what you need to know about this twice-a-year adjustment that continues to spark conversation and debate.
When Does Daylight Saving Time End?
Under federal law, daylight saving time begins on the second Sunday in March and concludes on the first Sunday in November. This year, the time change will happen as follows:
- End of Daylight Saving Time: Sunday, November 3, 2019
- Clocks Roll Back: 2 a.m. becomes 1 a.m.
Daylight saving time will return in 2025 on March 9, when clocks will jump forward again.
The History of Daylight Saving Time
Daylight saving time has origins dating back more than a century. While Benjamin Franklin is often credited with the idea for his 1784 essay on conserving candles, the actual implementation did not occur until the 20th century. Here’s a brief timeline:
- 1916: Germany becomes the first country to adopt daylight saving time as a fuel conservation method during World War I.
- 1918: The United States follows suit but quickly abandons the practice after the war.
- 1942: Franklin Roosevelt introduces “wartime,” a year-round daylight saving time during World War II.
- 1966: The Uniform Time Act establishes standard rules for daylight saving time across the nation.
Despite these historical developments, opinions on the practice remain divided. While many appreciate the extra daylight in the evenings, others argue that switching back and forth disrupts sleep patterns and daily routines.
Why the Change?
The primary purpose of daylight saving time is to make better use of daylight. By shifting the clock forward in spring, people can enjoy more daylight in the evening hours during the longer days of summer. Advocates argue that this shift encourages outdoor activities and can reduce energy consumption.
However, not everyone agrees. Critics of daylight saving time point out that the time changes can disrupt sleep and overall health. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) has even recommended that states consider eliminating these time changes altogether.
The Current Landscape
- States Observing DST: Most U.S. states adjust their clocks for daylight saving time.
- States that Do Not: Arizona and Hawaii do not observe daylight saving time. Some Native American tribes in Arizona do follow the time change.
- U.S. Territories: Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands also do not observe DST.
According to the AASM, research indicates that standard time, which reflects natural light and darkness more closely, may be healthier for our bodies. They state, “The daily cycle of natural light and darkness is the most powerful timing cue to synchronize our body’s internal clock.”
Consequences of Changing Clocks
Research shows that the transition into standard time can lead to various effects on health and safety, such as:
- Sleep Disruptions: The shift can cause sleep disturbances that affect mood and overall health.
- Increased Accidents: Studies suggest a spike in traffic accidents following the switch back to standard time, likely due to changes in sleep patterns and visibility.
- Mental Health Strain: There are concerns about seasonal affective disorder (SAD) as shorter days lead to decreased sunlight exposure.
Public Opinion and Legislative Action
The debate over daylight saving time continues, with many people supporting the idea of permanent standard time. Recent surveys show that a significant percentage of people would favor ending the time changes altogether.
The conversation is also happening at the legislative level. Several states have proposed bills to adopt year-round daylight saving time; however, a change requires congressional approval.
What to Expect This Fall
As we prepare for the shift in November, it’s helpful to know:
- Check Your Clocks: Remember to set your clocks back one hour before you go to bed on Saturday, November 2.
- Plan Ahead: The extra hour of rest may be ideal for scheduling activities or catching up on sleep.
- Embrace the Change: While it can be tough to adjust, consider using the darker evenings for cozy indoor activities.
Conclusion
When daylight saving time ends, people in the U.S. get ready for shorter days and longer nights. Some may be excited about the time change, while others might not like it as much. Knowing what to expect can help you adjust better. For now, don’t forget to turn your clocks back and enjoy that extra hour of sleep!
