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

Why Does America Still Change Clocks for Daylight Saving Time?

America continues the tradition of changing clocks twice a year, except for Hawaii and Arizona, where clocks remain the same year-round. This biannual shift marks the end of daylight saving time, with clocks set back one hour in early November.

The End of Daylight Saving Time

On Sunday, November 2, Americans will "fall back" by setting clocks back to 1 a.m., gaining an extra hour of sleep. This practice signals the shortening of daylight hours as the northern hemisphere approaches its darkest time of year.

Shortening Daylight Hours

Since the Summer Solstice, daylight has been steadily shrinking. By November 2, the sun will set as early as 4:56 p.m. in San Diego, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Early sunsets and late sunrises, such as 6:07 a.m., remind solar enthusiasts to soak up as much sunlight as possible before winter arrives.

"The hours of daylight will continue to dwindle, culminating on December 21, at which point the sun will set as early as 4:47 p.m." – NOAA

The combination of early darkness and heavy meals may encourage longer rest during this time of year.

Author’s Summary

The clock changes persist in most US states to adjust for seasonal daylight variations, reminding us of the natural shifts in daylight length from summer to winter.

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NBC 7 San Diego NBC 7 San Diego — 2025-11-01

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