Are You Prepared for the End of Daylight Saving Time?

When Do We Fall Back? Understanding the 2024 Time Change

Every year, people in many parts of the U.S. adjust their clocks twice—once in the spring and once in the fall. The fall time change, known as the end of Daylight Saving Time (DST), happens on the first Sunday of November. For 2024, that date is November 3rd.

Why Do We Change the Clocks?

Daylight Saving Time was introduced to make better use of daylight during the longer summer days. During spring, clocks are set forward by one hour ("spring forward"), and in fall, they are turned back by one hour ("fall back"). This change allows for more daylight in the evening during warmer months and more light in the morning during colder months.

What Does "Fall Back" Mean?

When we "fall back," clocks are set one hour earlier. For example, if it's 2:00 AM, you will change your clock back to 1:00 AM. This gives everyone an extra hour of sleep that night.

A Little History

Daylight Saving Time has been used in the U.S. since World War I as a way to save energy. While it was canceled and brought back a few times, it became permanent in the 1960s. Today, most states observe DST, but a few, like Hawaii and most of Arizona, do not.

Impact on Daily Life

Changing clocks can disrupt people's schedules, especially when it comes to sleep. Some people feel tired or out of sync for a few days after the switch. Health experts recommend gradually adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before the change to help your body get used to it.

Future of Daylight Saving Time

There have been talks about stopping the time change altogether, and some states have even passed laws to keep DST all year. However, until federal law changes, the time shifts will continue.