As autumn sets in, Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK are gearing up for the seasonal clock change, marking the official shift into winter time. This year, clocks will go back by one hour at 2:00 AM BST on Sunday, 27 October 2024. The adjustment means shorter days and longer nights, but it also offers the welcome gift of an extra hour in bed.
The Tradition of Turning Back the Clocks
The practice of changing the clocks is part of a tradition that dates back over a century. Initially introduced during World War I, the idea was to make better use of daylight during the darker winter months. By turning the clocks back, we shift an hour of daylight from the evening to the morning, making early mornings brighter as the days shorten. This change is especially useful as the sun rises later, helping commuters and early risers to start their day with a bit more natural light.
However, despite the extra hour of rest, the clock change can disrupt sleep patterns. Many people find it takes a few days to adjust, as the body’s internal clock struggles to align with the new time. It’s wise to be mindful of the change, especially when planning your activities for the upcoming week.
The Impact on Daylight and Weather
After the clock change, we begin to experience much earlier sunsets, with dusk arriving as early as 5 PM by mid-November. This steady decline in daylight continues until the winter solstice on 21 December, the shortest day of the year. From that point onward, daylight hours slowly start to increase again, though the darker afternoons can make it feel like winter has truly taken hold.
Weather-wise, autumn in Ireland brings cooler temperatures and a greater chance of rain, especially along the coasts. Highs typically range between 10°C and 14°C, with chilly winds and overcast skies becoming more common. Frosty mornings may also start to make an appearance, signaling that winter is on its way.
Embracing the Change
As we prepare for darker, cosier evenings, the clock change is a reminder that it’s time to embrace autumn in full. Whether it’s enjoying crisp walks in nature, indulging in hot drinks by the fire, or layering up for the colder months, the extra hour of rest offers the perfect excuse to slow down and enjoy the season.