What's Happening?
Daylight Saving Time (DST) is set to begin on March 8, 2026, marking the earliest possible date for the time change this year. DST involves setting clocks forward by one hour to extend evening daylight during the warmer months. This tradition, first enacted
in the U.S. in 1918, aims to provide an extra hour of sunlight during summer. The Uniform Time Act of 1966 standardized DST across the country, preventing local governments from independently altering the start and end dates. Since 2007, DST has started on the second Sunday of March and ended on the first Sunday of November. The upcoming change will result in sunrise and sunset occurring an hour later than the previous day.
Why It's Important?
The shift to Daylight Saving Time has significant implications for public health and safety. Research indicates that the loss of an hour of sleep can disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to increased risks of heart attacks, strokes, and fatal car accidents in the days following the time change. Additionally, sleep deprivation is linked to various health issues, including heart disease, cognitive decline, and obesity. The time change also affects daily routines, potentially impacting productivity and mood. Understanding these effects is crucial for individuals and policymakers to mitigate negative outcomes associated with DST.
