Southern Oregon, residents will once again prepare for that familiar yearly ritual—turning the clocks back one hour. Daylight Saving Time officially ended tonight at 2:00 a.m., marking the return to Standard Time. While most people simply think of it as an extra hour of sleep, the change brings with it a variety of effects on daily life, from energy use and safety to mood and productivity.
Oregon, like most states, observes the time change every fall and spring, even as some regions across the United States have moved away from the practice. States such as Arizona and Hawaii, for instance, remain on Standard Time year-round, choosing not to “fall back” or “spring forward.” Despite past discussions in Salem about ending the time shift, Oregon continues to align with federal guidelines and will once again participate in the national clock adjustment.
For Southern Oregonians, the immediate result is a lighter morning commute and an earlier sunset in the evening. The sun will rise just after 7 a.m. on Sunday, brightening up breakfast hours, but it will also set before 5 p.m., drawing an early curtain on outdoor activities and evening errands. The change often marks the unofficial start of winter routines—cozier evenings, early dinners, and the return of porch lights flickering on before dinnertime.
Health experts often remind people that even a one-hour shift can subtly disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm. It can take several days to adjust to the earlier sunset, and some individuals may feel slightly out of sync at the start of the week. A good night’s rest, maintaining regular meal times, and getting morning sunlight can all help the body adapt more smoothly.
The transition is also a useful reminder to check household safety measures. Fire departments nationwide encourage residents to use this opportunity to test smoke detectors, replace batteries in alarms, and review emergency supplies. These small habits, tied to the clock change, can make a major difference when it comes to preparedness and safety.
The return to Standard Time also has practical effects on local schedules. Businesses that operate across multiple states should verify hours with partners in regions that do not observe the time change. Travelers, too, will want to double-check flight itineraries and bus schedules to avoid confusion on Sunday morning. For those who rely on electronic devices, most smartphones and computers will adjust automatically, but analog clocks, microwaves, ovens, and vehicle dashboards will need to be manually set back one hour.
Across Southern Oregon, the time shift serves as a seasonal marker of change. The days will continue to grow shorter until the winter solstice in December, and the long nights provide the perfect excuse to enjoy the warmth of home. Whether you plan to catch an extra hour of sleep, savor a late-night movie, or simply use the time to recharge, tonight’s clock change is a small but meaningful reminder that autumn is winding down and winter is on the horizon.
So, before you turn out the lights, take a moment to turn back the clocks—and enjoy your bonus hour of rest, Southern Oregon style.