Oprah Breaks Silence on Backlash Over Blocking Private Road During Hawaii Tsunami Escape: “Here’s the Truth”
Oprah Winfrey has addressed allegations that she refused to open a private road on her Maui property as Hawaiians attempted to evacuate to higher ground during a tsunami warning.
Tsunami Warning Prompts Mass Evacuation
On July 30, a massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Russia triggered tsunami warnings across the Pacific, including Hawaii. Residents were urged by authorities to leave coastal areas and seek safety inland or at higher elevations.
As thousands attempted to evacuate, traffic congestion quickly became a major issue. Amid the chaos, social media posts began circulating, accusing Winfrey of keeping a private road closed, thereby blocking an alternative escape route.
Social Media Uproar
One widely shared post on Twitter/X claimed:
“People in Maui, Hawaii are trying to escape the tsunami and are BEGGING Oprah to open the private road on her property. She’s reportedly still refusing. In a crisis, blocking an escape route is inhumane.”
The post included footage of gridlocked roads and a map highlighting the location of the private road, and it was viewed more than 2.7 million times. Other users echoed the sentiment, urging Winfrey to “OPEN THE ROAD OPRAH,” and criticizing her alleged inaction.
Another post alleged:
“Oprah won’t open her private road from Wailea to Kula, Hawaii, which would make it much easier for locals to get to higher ground.”
As the story gained traction, the original account later updated followers, claiming:
“After massive public uproar and intervention from President Trump, Oprah has finally opened her private road to aid emergency access. Her social media team is now in full damage control mode – but this was not expected from her. Public trust shaken.”
Oprah Winfrey’s Response
A spokesperson for Winfrey responded to the controversy, telling Newsweek:
“As soon as we heard the tsunami warnings, we contacted local law enforcement and FEMA to ensure the road was opened. Any reports otherwise are false.”
This statement was supported by the Maui Police Department, which issued a Tsunami Warning Update confirming: “Oprah’s road is open to get Upcountry.”
Previous Acts of Assistance
Winfrey, who owns a farm on the slopes of Haleakalā, a dormant volcano, has a history of opening her private road in times of crisis. She previously granted access to the road during wildfires in both 2019 and 2023 to facilitate evacuations.
Situation Update
Fortunately, the tsunami warning for Hawaii was later downgraded after only small waves reached the islands, and evacuees were allowed to return home. Hawaii Governor Josh Green reassured residents:
“So far we have not seen a wave of consequence, which is a great relief to us… We expect to be about two to three hours at least until we can call ‘all clear.’ So far though, at the moment, so good.”
Former President Donald Trump also posted on Truth Social, urging people in affected areas to stay safe and follow official updates.
In summary , while social media posts accused Oprah Winfrey of blocking a critical evacuation route during Hawaii’s tsunami warning, both her representatives and local authorities confirmed that her private road was open for emergency use, as it had been during previous disasters.
