Sharknado in the Cornfields? Debunking the Great Illinois Shark Attack (That Never Happened)
Have you ever pictured yourself swimming leisurely in a cool lake on a hot Illinois summer day, only to be rudely interrupted by a rogue bull shark with a taste for Midwesterners? Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive headfirst (pun intended) into the myth, the legend, the terrifying folktale of shark attacks in Illinois.
How Many Shark Attacks In Illinois |
So, How Many Shark Attacks Have Plagued the Prairie State?
The answer, my friend, is a resounding zero. That's right, zilch, nada. Illinois is about as far from a shark-infested beach as you can get, unless you count that inflatable pool toy your neighbor keeps in their yard.
There have been a couple of unverified reports of bull sharks swimming up the Mississippi River and reaching Alton, Illinois, back in the day. But these sightings are about as reliable as a politician's campaign promises.
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
These days, thanks to the wonders of dams and a general lack of salty ocean water, Illinois's waterways are about as inviting to a shark as a kiddie pool is to a teenager.
But Wait! There's More to the Story (Not Really)
Look, we know what you're thinking: "But what about the movie 'Sharknado 6: Escape from Peoria?'" Let's be honest, that cinematic masterpiece was about as realistic as a talking dolphin. Relax, Illinois residents, the closest you'll get to a shark encounter is probably a plate of delicious fish and chips.
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
Frequently Asked Questions (About Shark Attacks in Illinois, Because Apparently People Ask)
How to avoid a shark attack in Illinois? Easy! Just don't go swimming in the cornfields.
How to tell if a shark is lurking in your local lake? If you see a giant fin cruising past your kayak, it's probably just catfish with a serious case of commitment to the role.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling, read carefully here.
How to survive a shark attack in Illinois? (Just humoring you here) First, pinch yourself to wake up from this crazy dream. Second, use your newfound adrenaline to win the Illinois State Fair pie-eating contest.
How to prepare for a future shark apocalypse in Illinois? Stock up on cheese curds, deep-dish pizza, and learn how to sword fight with a corn cob (because, honestly, that's probably as useful as anything else).
Tip: Focus on one point at a time.
How to relax and enjoy the beautiful state of Illinois, shark-free? Go fishing, boating, or have a picnic by the lake. Just remember the sunscreen, because the biggest threat to your well-being here is probably sunburn.