5. The Exploding Whale (Oregon, 1970)
A dead whale washed up on an Oregon beach. Authorities decided to blow it up with dynamite, thinking seagulls would eat the remains. Instead, chunks of whale rained down on cars, people, and buildings.
Why it’s bizarre:
- The explosion destroyed nearby property.
- The plan solved nothing—whale parts still had to be cleaned.
- It became a legendary news story.