When Exaclty Do The Clocks Change in ID, WA, and UT This Weekend?

When Precisely Does The Time Change Go Into Effect This Weekend?

This weekend, Idaho, Washington, and Utah will experience the annual transition to daylight saving time (DST) along with most of the rest of the US. At precisely 2:00 a.m. local time on Sunday, March 9, 2025, clocks will "spring forward" one hour to 3:00 a.m., ushering in extended evening daylight.

Why Does the Time Change Happen at 2 A.M.?

The 2:00 a.m. change was chosen to minimize disruption while most people are asleep, businesses are closed, and travel schedules are least affected. It also allows each U.S. time zone to shift separately overnight, preventing confusion. This standard was set by the Uniform Time Act of 1966 and remains in place today.

History of Daylight Saving Time

The concept of DST dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with proposals that were made with the idea of getting more daylight. It gained popularity during World War I as way to conserve energy. In 1966, the Uniform Time Act standardized the observance of DST across the U.S., eliminating the large number of local practices that had previously existed.

States That Do Not Observe Daylight Saving Time

While most U.S. states observe DST, there are notable exceptions:

• Hawaii: Due to its location, Hawaii experiences little variation in daylight throughout the year, rendering DST unnecessary.
• Arizona: The state opted out of DST in 1968, primarily to avoid the extended daylight hours and higher temperatures during summer evenings.
• U.S. Territories: American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands do not observe DST, largely due to their locations near the equator. Daylight hours remain fairly constant all year.

Idaho's Consideration of Permanent Daylight Saving Time

Idaho lawmakers have discussed eliminating the time change, but no official changes have been made. Proposals suggest northern Idaho could follow Washington if it adopts permanent DST, while southern Idaho might follow Utah. For now, Idaho continues to follow the traditional schedule.

The Downsides of Daylight Saving Time

DST has been linked to increased risks of heart attacks, strokes, and workplace accidents due to disrupted sleep. It can also cause scheduling confusion and lower productivity in the days following the switch.

The debate over DST continues nationwide, with discussions about its benefits and drawbacks. As Idaho, Utah, and Washington prepare to adjust their clocks this weekend, the conversation about the future of DST remains a pertinent topic both locally and across the country.