Millions of residents in the United States have to set their clocks forward one hour each year as part of a long-standing practice, but its utility and popularity are being questioned.
Known as daylight saving time (DST), this temporal adjustment involves setting clocks forward or backward one hour depending on the season. However, this measure is supposed to contribute to energy savings by making better use of natural light.
However, its effectiveness is being questioned, especially in regions near the equator where seasonal changes have minimal effect on day length.
Should the clock be turned back or forward?
The next adjustment will be towards what is also known as daylight saving time. So our clocks should be one hour ahead.
When does time change in the United States?
Well, not all states do it equally. Despite its widespread application, there are exceptions in the country. Arizona and Hawaii, along with four states, do not participate in this time change. Additionally, the United States has nine time zones overseen by the Department of Transportation, spanning from the Atlantic to the Comoros.
However, some regions within the country are not affected by this adjustment. Places like Hawaii, most of Arizona, and certain regions like Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, among others, are exempt from the time change.
The practice has its origins in World War I, when President Woodrow Wilson enacted the Standard Time Act in 1918 as a measure to reduce energy costs during the war. Although it was born with a specific purpose, its relevance and effectiveness in the current context is being debated.
What day do they change time in the United States?
In 2024, daylight saving time will begin unusually in the United States. Due to leap year, adjustments will be made March 10 at 2 am, thus extending the wait a day longer than usual. The first Sunday of November marks the end of the summer season, which marks the beginning of winter on November 3rd.
You must take this information into account to avoid being late to your office or school, for example, or to properly reschedule each of your daily tasks.
