Minneapolis: Steam rises in -15F cold, January 2, 2022
On January 2, 2022, temperatures in Minneapolis, Minnesota, dropped to -15°F, causing steam to rise from the urban environment. This phenomenon, common in extremely cold weather, occurs when warm, moist air from buildings or underground infrastructure meets the frigid outdoor air. The resulting condensation creates a dense fog that can obscure visibility, transforming familiar cityscapes into ethereal landscapes. The image captures this effect in an area with temporary fencing and construction materials, suggesting ongoing development or maintenance within the city.
Photo taken in January 2022. © 2026 Chad Davis



