Millions of Canadians in western provinces are leaving their clocks untouched this weekend as provinces increasingly abandon biannual time changes, nos.nl reported. British Columbia has selected permanent daylight saving time, meaning residents will not turn their clocks back for the first time.
British Columbia and Western Provinces Abandon Time Changes
The shift affects more than just British Columbia. Alberta, Manitoba, and western parts of Ontario are also entering the winter season without rolling back their clocks. Public preference for brighter evenings largely drove the political decisions behind the change, according to experts cited in Canadian media.
However, the choice of permanent daylight saving time brings significant drawbacks during the darkest months of the year. In southern cities like Vancouver and Calgary, the sun will not rise until approximately 9:00 a.m. Further north in Edmonton, sunrise will occur around 10:00 a.m.
Health Experts Warn of Permanent Daylight Saving Risks
Medical and scientific professionals have criticized the political embrace of permanent daylight saving time, arguing that standard time aligns better with human biology. Wendy Hall, an emeritus professor at the University of British Columbia, stated that permanent daylight saving was the wrong choice for public health. “We should not have chosen permanent daylight saving time,” Hall told the news site CTV News, noting that standard time is the healthier choice because it better matches the internal body rhythms that regulate sleep.
Professors of psychology also warned that politicians underestimated the power of the internal clock. The mismatch between social schedules and biology can cause difficulties with falling asleep or maintaining alertness. “That means we are less alert and likely sleep-deprived when the alarm goes off,” Hall explained, pointing to potential risks for teenagers and morning traffic safety.
Quebec and Ontario Weigh Future Clock Adjustments
Other provinces are now considering similar departures from the traditional time change. The premier of Quebec announced plans to consult experts before deciding whether to end the practice, though it remains unknown whether Quebec will opt for permanent standard time or daylight saving time.
Meanwhile, Ontario has adopted a conditional approach. The province will only halt the practice of changing clocks if neighboring regions, including Manitoba, Quebec, and the U.S. state of New York, implement identical policies.
Common Questions About Canadian Time Changes
Why is the sun rising so late in western Canadian cities this winter?
Provinces like British Columbia and Alberta chose permanent daylight saving time instead of standard time. This decision pushes sunrise in southern cities like Vancouver and Calgary to around 9:00 a.m., while Edmonton sees sunrise closer to 10:00 a.m. during the darkest months.
What health concerns have researchers raised about permanent daylight saving time?
Experts including University of British Columbia emeritus professor Wendy Hall warn that permanent daylight saving time disrupts natural sleep-wake cycles. This mismatch can cause a form of social jetlag, resulting in sleep deprivation, reduced alertness, and particular difficulties for teenagers.
Will other Canadian provinces stop changing their clocks?
Quebec’s premier announced plans to consult experts before deciding on a permanent time format. Ontario has stated it will only end the biannual time changes if surrounding regions such as Manitoba, Quebec, and New York state adopt the same rules.
Related reading