SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — The morning commute for drivers along Interstate 80 through Parleys Canyon was severely disrupted on Monday, following a night of unexpected rain accompanied by rapidly falling temperatures that left the roadways icy and treacherous. The icy conditions resulted in multiple accidents, leading to significant traffic delays that stretched for miles. The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) responded swiftly to the deteriorating situation by implementing traction law restrictions for all vehicles traveling in the canyon, a move aimed at enhancing safety on one of the state's busiest highways. As the sun rose on Monday, visibility decreased and temperatures plummeted, creating hazardous driving conditions that caught many motorists off guard. By 8 a.m., reports indicated that three separate crashes had taken place on I-80 eastbound toward Park City. These incidents created a backup of more than 10 miles, with one notable collision involving a semi-truck that became immobilized near Parleys Summit. The truck's positioning blocked the right-most lane for westbound traffic, exacerbating the congestion. In light of the accidents and ongoing hazardous conditions, UDOT issued a series of updates through social media, advising drivers to remain vigilant. As of 10 a.m., the traction law restrictions were lifted for eastbound vehicles, but westbound drivers continued to face challenges as restrictions remained in place. UDOT's real-time updates emphasized that icy patches and snowy conditions could persist across several high-elevation routes, particularly affecting I-80 and nearby roads. The agency also noted varying conditions on different segments of the roadways. For instance, while the area from I-215 into Parleys Canyon was reported to be merely wet with “light slush,” more severe conditions were noted from Lambs Canyon to Parleys Summit, where roads were described as slushy and snow-covered. Drivers traveling from Parleys Summit to Kimball Junction encountered roads that were predominantly snow-covered, further complicating travel plans for many. In addition to the challenges on I-80, drivers on State Route 224 also faced significant delays due to multiple crashes occurring in the Park City area. UDOT made it clear that traction devices were mandatory for all vehicles navigating SR-224 between Park City and Empire Pass, highlighting the continued need for caution in various locales. As the day progressed, UDOT officials remained optimistic about improvements in road conditions. They anticipated that the snow would taper off and that rising temperatures would contribute to clearing the icy patches on the roads. Road crews were already working diligently to address the challenging conditions, plowing and salting the roads to restore safe travel for motorists. The incidents on I-80 serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of winter weather in Utah, where conditions can change rapidly, leading to dangerous driving situations. UDOT encourages all drivers to check road conditions before embarking on their journeys, especially during unpredictable weather patterns typical of the winter months. In conclusion, while the morning's icy conditions caused significant disruptions for commuters, the efforts of UDOT and local road crews are expected to lead to improved travel conditions as the day progresses. Motorists are urged to remain cautious and to stay updated on weather and road conditions as they navigate Utah’s mountainous terrain. With the right precautions, drivers can work to ensure their safety and that of others on the road.