A significant earthquake with a magnitude of 8.8 shook the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia, causing tsunami waves to hit Hawaii. As residents sought higher ground in their vehicles, rumors began circulating online about Oprah Winfrey, a well-known Maui resident. These rumors accused her of not opening her private road to assist in the evacuation, sparking widespread outrage. Oprah has since addressed these claims.

Following the tsunami warning in Hawaii on Tuesday, Oprah faced backlash after accusations on social media claimed she had kept her private road closed, hindering evacuation efforts. The initial tsunami waves reached Hawaii late on Tuesday, following the earthquake off the coast of Russia.

On California’s northern shore, similar waves were noted early Wednesday. Nearby the earthquake’s epicenter, various structures in Russia sustained damages, including a kindergarten that unfortunately collapsed, though no injuries occurred. Russian state media TASS announced a state of emergency in response.

Reports from CNN described water coursing between buildings, carrying substantial debris and damaging industrial sites. Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido, also experienced tsunami activity, prompting the evacuation of over two million individuals across 21 prefectures. Fortunately, no fatalities have been recorded.

Apart from the US, Russia, and Japan, tsunami alerts were in effect for numerous Pacific nations, including the Philippines, Chile, Peru, Mexico, Panama, Taiwan, Indonesia, and Ecuador. Alaska also maintained active tsunami warnings.

Concerns Raised Over Oprah’s Private Road Access During Evacuation

Anger surged among Maui residents after a video on X (formerly known as Twitter) went viral. In the footage, stretching lines of cars are seen, with claims suggesting Oprah refused to open her gated road to aid those fleeing to safety.

One man can be heard saying in the now-famous clip, “Look at this. I think they’re trying to open Oprah’s road. C’mon Oprah, save us… Everybody trying to get in. Cops trying to open it. Nope, still closed.” Gates to the road were visible, emphasizing the public’s frustration as cars stalled amidst an impending tsunami.

According to Hawaii News Now, Oprah’s Maui property sits along Thompson Road, described as a public road traversing Oprah’s private estate in Kula. NBC News corroborated the existence of this public road within her ranch.

The video provoked a surge of social media ire directed at Oprah. One post proclaimed, “Why hasn’t Oprah opened her road? This could save lives…” Another user critiqued, “Oprah HAS NOT opened her private road from Wailea to Kula, Hawaii, which would allow coastal residents to reach safe elevations swiftly, locals inform me. Open the road Oprah! Maui’s roads are GRIDLOCKED as individuals seek escape from the incoming tsunami.”

A third user echoed the concern, stating, “A potentially life-saving route is being kept closed while people are stuck in cars with sirens blaring.”

Oprah’s Response and Clarification on Road Access

Contrary to these accusations, Oprah’s private road was eventually opened, affording people a safe escape to higher grounds.

One person on X, Nick Sortor, shared, “BREAKING: Following INTENSE public pressure, Oprah’s private road has been OPENED to those escaping the tsunami WELL DONE, EVERYONE! It should’ve been opened HOURS ago, but if you’re in Wailea on Maui and need to get to higher ground, USE OPRAH’S ROAD NOW! Haleakala Ranch Rd, Maui, HI.”

The viral video later included a community note clarifying that the Maui Police Department had indeed verified the road was accessible.

As reported by Newsweek, the instructions from the Traffic Section of Maui’s police department dated July 29, mentioned, “Maui Veterans Highway is congested; use Cane Haul Road toward Hansen and Pulehu roads to get to Kula. Road above Makena Golf Course provides access to Ulupalakua. Also, Oprah’s road is open to get Upcountry, according to Maui Police Department.”

In a timely response, Oprah Winfrey’s spokesperson addressed the matter, negating the allegations that the road remained closed.

A statement given to Newsweek reads, “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. Local law enforcement are currently on site helping residents through 50 cars at a time to ensure everyone’s safety. The road will remain open as long as necessary.”

Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the tsunami across the globe. Stay safe and vigilant.