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Sarah Dallof ReportingThe first snowfall of the season translates into a busy day for Highway Patrol and a dangerous day for drivers. It's good news for the ski bums and bad news for those who weren't ready to say goodbye to warmer temperatures.
The first flakes of the season fell today. We kept hearing one phrase again and again as we talked to people about the weather: "It's too early." But it's here, like it or not.
The passes were flying at Rice-Eccles stadium, so was the snow.
Rex Larsen says, "It started as rain then turned into snow, and it's just been super cold."
But the hard core fans stayed put, because they came prepared.
Jason Wessman says, "I've sat through cold games. Once it was snowing and I wore sandals. I've learned from that experience."
While fans were focused on points, the Utah Highway Patrol was forced to count car accidents.
UHP Trooper Ami Fallows says, "We've had about 30 or more crashes this morning, due to the weather."
The majority were minor, caused by people failing to follow the rules of the road during inclement weather.
"Slow down, increase your following distance, don't follow cars so closely, be courteous to other drivers," Trooper Fallows advised.
Our cameras caught the beauty of the first snowfall in Sardine Canyon and in a Sandy neighborhood, but it was those same snow soaked roads game goers weren't looking forward to traveling.
Wessman said, "I hope they remember how to drive, but it is snowing in September so it may catch everyone off guard."
Richard Heath said, "People get pretty stupid. They seem to forget over the summer how to drive."
The Utah Highway Patrol is also reminding you tonight to inspect your car. Check out the brakes and the tire pressure, and don't risk running out of gas during weather like this. You don't want to be cold and out of your car on wet, slick roads.
