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Is A 'Leviathan' Waking Up Near Virginia? The Bizarre Facebook Conspiracy Theory And Memes Explained
A wild conspiracy theory has spread from Facebook to social media at large, and it claims that a Leviathan is waking up near Virginia.
The absurd theory is based on what appears to be a screenshot from Google Earth showing a snake-like shape in the ocean that has a lot of people freaking out. Now, conspiracy theorists believe the government is manufacturing a snowstorm to take care of it.
So, what exactly is a leviathan? Is there anything really going on in Virginia, and how is the internet responding to the theory? Here's what you need to know.
What Is The 'Leviathan Waking Up Near Virginia' Theory?
The leviathan conspiracy theory was popularized on Facebook as early as January 24th, 2026, when user Christopher Archer shared a screenshot they claimed was taken from Google Earth that appears to show a snake-like head in the ocean to the east of Virginia.
The post, which gained thousands of likes, shares and reactions in the following days, offers some context. It reads:
"The Leviathan is waking up near Virginia. This is why they are creating a FAKE snow storm and manipulating the weather so they can freeze it because the military bases in the area."
For those who don't know, a leviathan is a mythological sea creature that even makes an appearance in the Old Testament of the Bible.
This theory was reposted by numerous Facebook users over the next few days along with the screenshot, which appears to be altered, as checking the same area in Google Earth does not show the head of a giant creature.
How Is The 'Leviathan Waking Up Near Virginia' Used In Memes?
On Facebook, the leviathan conspiracy theory has continued to spread through reposts. Elsewhere online, the theory has become the subject of memes and mockery by those who recognize it as a hoax.
The theory started inspiring memes in late January 2026 when X / Twitter user @trappalachiann posted screenshots of two Facebook users sharing it to over 50,000 likes.
Most of the memes simply make fun of the idea of a leviathan waking up near Virginia, and the people who would fall for a conspiracy theory like this.
Others are making ironic memes that play along with the theory and joke that everyone should take it very seriously.
What Are Some More ''Leviathan Waking Up Near Virginia' Memes?
For the full history of the Leviathan Waking Up Near Virginia, be sure to check out Know Your Meme's encyclopedia entry for more information.
