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Understanding Sunrise and Sunset Times Across the United States

June 17, 2026 · The Clime Team
Understanding Sunrise and Sunset Times Across the United States

Sunrise and sunset times are fundamental to daily life, influencing activities from agriculture to recreation. In the United States, these times vary significantly due to the country's vast geographical expanse and multiple time zones.

Why Do Sunrise and Sunset Times Vary?

The primary factors influencing sunrise and sunset times include:

  • Geographical Location: Latitude and longitude determine the angle at which sunlight reaches a location, affecting the timing of sunrise and sunset.

  • Time Zones: The U.S. spans several time zones, causing variations in local times for sunrise and sunset.

  • Daylight Saving Time (DST): Implemented in many regions, DST shifts clocks forward in spring and back in fall, altering the apparent times of sunrise and sunset.

How to Access Accurate Sunrise and Sunset Times

For precise sunrise and sunset times tailored to specific locations, consider the following resources:

  • Time and Date: This platform provides detailed astronomical data for numerous U.S. cities, including sunrise and sunset times.

  • National Weather Service (NWS): The NWS offers localized weather forecasts that include sunrise and sunset information.

  • Mobile Applications: Various apps are available that provide real-time sunrise and sunset times based on user location.

Example: Sunrise and Sunset Times in Los Angeles, CA

For instance, on June 17, 2026, in Los Angeles, CA:

  • Sunrise: 6:14 AM

  • Sunset: 9:13 PM

This results in approximately 14 hours and 59 minutes of daylight. (sunrise.maplogs.com)

Factors Affecting Daylight Duration

The length of daylight varies throughout the year due to the tilt of the Earth's axis. During summer months, regions experience longer days, while winter months have shorter days. For example, in Los Angeles, daylight duration increases from about 10 hours in December to nearly 15 hours in June.

Conclusion

Understanding sunrise and sunset times is essential for planning daily activities and appreciating the natural rhythms of our environment. Utilizing reliable resources ensures accurate information tailored to specific locations across the United States.

Highlights:

  • Sunrise and Sunset in the United States

Frequently Asked Questions