Do Clocks Spring Forward or Fall Back in March?
Many of us dread the biannual clock change, but especially the one that disrupts our sleep schedule. In March, with spring just around the corner, you might be wondering – do we set our clocks forward or backward?
Which Way Do Clocks Go In March? Spring Forward in March!
In locations that observe Daylight Saving Time (DST), clocks actually spring forward in March. This means we set our clocks one hour ahead, effectively losing an hour of sleep. Daylight Saving Time typically begins on the second Sunday of March at 2:00 am local time.
Why Spring Forward?
The purpose of Daylight Saving Time is to maximize daylight hours during the summer months. By setting clocks ahead in spring, we get an extra hour of sunlight in the evening, which can be beneficial for outdoor activities and potentially even lead to lower energy consumption.
But Wait, There’s More!
Not all locations observe Daylight Saving Time. Some states in the U.S., like Arizona (except for the Navajo Nation), and the territory of Hawaii, for example, maintain standard time year-round. Additionally, some countries have abolished DST altogether.
Remembering Which Way to Change
There are a few handy mnemonics to help you remember which way to set your clocks:
- Spring Forward, Fall Back: This is a popular saying that reminds us to set clocks ahead in spring and back in fall.
- Move the Clocks with the Flowers: As flowers start to bloom in spring, we move the clocks forward as well.
The Future of Daylight Saving Time
The practice of Daylight Saving Time is a subject of ongoing debate. Some people find the biannual time change disruptive, while others appreciate the extra daylight in the evenings during summer. There are even proposals to make Daylight Saving Time permanent, although the decision varies by location.So, now you know! In March, clocks spring forward, giving us an extra hour of sunlight in the evenings (but taking away an hour of sleep!).
Also read: Do Phones Automatically Change Time Zones?
Which Locations In the US Do Not Observe Daylight Savings?
In the United States, there are two states and several territories that do not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST):
- States:
- Arizona (except the Navajo Nation)
- Hawaii
- Territories:
- American Samoa
- Guam
- Northern Mariana Islands
- Puerto Rico
- U.S. Virgin Islands
These locations all stick to standard time year-round. The reasons for not observing DST vary:
- Hawaii: Due to its proximity to the equator, Hawaii experiences minimal variation in daylight hours throughout the year. So, there’s not a significant benefit to shifting clocks.
- Arizona (except Navajo Nation): Arizona experimented with DST but opted out permanently in 1968. The Navajo Nation within Arizona, however, does observe DST.
- U.S. Territories: Most U.S. territories are located in the tropics, similar to Hawaii, and have minimal daylight variation. Additionally, some territories, like American Samoa, fall in the Southern Hemisphere where DST schedules wouldn’t align well with seasonal changes.
FAQs
1. Do clocks go forward or backward in March?
Forward! In March, clocks spring forward one hour for Daylight Saving Time.
2. Why do we change clocks in March?
To maximize daylight hours during summer. Setting clocks ahead gives us an extra hour of sunlight in the evening.
3. Do all places in the US change clocks in March?
No. Arizona (except Navajo Nation) and Hawaii stick to standard time year-round.
4. How can I remember which way to set the clocks?
Use mnemonics like “Spring Forward, Fall Back” or “Move the Clocks with the Flowers.”
5. Will Daylight Saving Time always be a thing?
The future of DST is uncertain. Some regions are debating making it permanent, while others might abolish it altogether.
Content Contributor: Juhi Saluja
