The clocks will move forward one hour at 2:00 AM on Sunday, March 30, 2025, marking the start of British Summer Time (BST) and Irish Summer Time. This annual shift means that the entire hour between 1:00 AM and 2:00 AM will be skipped, effectively leading to a loss of one hour of sleep for many. While most digital devices will automatically adjust, traditional clocks will require manual changes.
As the days grow longer, this shift brings with it a promise of more daylight in the evenings, which many people welcome. Temperatures are expected to reach a pleasant 16 degrees Celsius on Sunday, with highs of up to 17 degrees forecasted for the following Wednesday, April 2, 2025, according to Met Éireann, the national weather agency.
Saturday, March 29, will see a gradual improvement in weather conditions, with temperatures between 11 and 15 degrees as the day becomes drier and brighter by evening. Sunday is set to be dry with spells of sunshine, although the southwest may experience some cloudiness and isolated light showers. The highest temperatures on Sunday will range from 12 to 16 degrees, accompanied by light to moderate northwesterly winds.
However, the clock change is not without its complications. The Alzheimer’s Society has raised concerns that the shift can pose significant challenges for individuals living with dementia. Angelo Makri, a senior knowledge officer at the organization, stated that while most people may not feel the impact of the time change, it can disrupt the body clock of those with dementia, leading to confusion and anxiety. “As daylight stretches into the evening, it can become harder for people with dementia to tell the difference between 6 AM and 6 PM,” Makri explained.
To help manage the transition, the Alzheimer’s Society recommends gradually adjusting daily routines, such as moving meal times and bedtimes an hour earlier on the night before the change. This can help mitigate feelings of irritability and distress that may arise from disrupted sleep patterns.
Historically, the practice of changing clocks dates back to 1907 when Englishman William Willett proposed the idea of Daylight Saving Time (DST) to make better use of daylight during the summer months. His concept, however, was not widely adopted until World War I when Germany and Austria-Hungary implemented it to conserve energy. The UK followed suit in 1916, officially marking the first day of British Summer Time.
Since then, the clock change has become a standardized practice across Europe, established as a European law in 1981. The clock adjustments occur on the last Sunday in March and the last Sunday in October. This year, clocks will revert back to standard time at 3:00 AM on October 26, 2025.
While the time change is intended to save electricity and maximize daylight, it has drawn criticism for its potential health impacts. Critics argue that the disruption can lead to increased fatigue and even road accidents due to drowsiness. The farming industry also raises concerns, noting that livestock, such as cows, may experience decreased milk yields due to the abrupt change in schedule.
In recent years, the debate over the necessity of Daylight Saving Time has intensified, with some advocating for its abolition. The European Union has proposed plans to eliminate the seasonal clock changes, but member states have yet to reach a consensus. As discussions continue, the implications of this twice-yearly adjustment remain a topic of interest.
As the transition to British Summer Time approaches, many residents are reminded to adjust their clocks and adapt their routines accordingly. Whether it’s enjoying longer evenings or adjusting to the effects of lost sleep, the clock change marks a significant shift in daily life.
For those affected by dementia or other health issues, it’s essential to approach this time of year with awareness and preparation. With proper adjustments and support, individuals can navigate the change more smoothly and enjoy the benefits of longer daylight hours.
