Deep Freeze

Steam rises from the base of Spokane Falls, partially shrouding the Monroe Street Bridge in silver mist.

When I woke up this morning, the thermometer recorded the outside temperature at an excruciating 10 degrees. The clear winter air was quite deceptive, throwing sunshine about like a hot summer day, but quickly sucking the warmth from any exposed skin. The cold left me breathless and stiff, too cold to even shiver.

Then after work this afternoon, the deceitful sun lured me outdoors to photograph the Spokane River, in spite of my better judgment. The cold quickly settled into my hands and feet, and after four or five minutes outside, my fingers went numb. Only a minute more and I could no longer remember which buttons to press on my camera. Is that what happens when people freeze to death; when their judgment slowly fades into silence?

This deep freeze is so beautiful and lethal.


Riverfront Park looks deceptively warm and bright.


The Washington Water Power Building and the Post Street Bridge are visible above Spokane Falls.


The old Washington Water Power Building, now owned by Avista, is visible from under the arch of the Monroe Street Bridge.