Oprah Winfrey responds after Maui tsunami evacuation road controversy

As tsunami waves hit Hawaii, rumors swirled online that Oprah Winfrey blocked a private road on Maui during evacuations. Her team is now setting the record straight.

Oprah Winfrey Addresses Rumors Amid Maui Tsunami Chaos

As powerful tsunami waves surged toward the Hawaiian islands following a deep-sea earthquake, a swirl of misinformation flooded social media, including allegations that media mogul Oprah Winfrey had blocked a private road on Maui during the emergency evacuation. On July 29, thousands of residents and tourists on Maui Island scrambled to higher ground after tsunami alerts were triggered by seismic activity. As helicopters monitored the coast and sirens wailed across the island, false claims about Oprah restricting access to a critical escape route gained traction online.

What Sparked the Controversy?

Shortly after the evacuation began, viral posts claimed that a private road leading through Oprah’s property in Kula, Maui, was closed to the public, preventing residents from fleeing to safer elevations. The allegation quickly spread, with users accusing Winfrey of putting lives at risk to preserve her estate’s privacy. Some even suggested a pattern of local tensions involving wealthy landowners and restricted access during emergencies.

Oprah’s Team Denies the Accusations

Winfrey’s spokesperson responded swiftly, stating the claims were “absolutely false.” The statement emphasized that Oprah did not restrict access to her property and any gate closures were part of standard emergency procedures managed by Maui authorities, not the property owner.

“To be clear, the road was opened and accessible as directed by emergency responders,” the representative said.

Sources also confirmed Oprah had instructed staff to cooperate fully with officials and allow any necessary access during the tsunami alert.

The Truth About the Private Road

According to local authorities, the road in question is typically used for limited access to Oprah’s ranch and is not a designated public evacuation route. During the tsunami alert, emergency crews worked with landowners to ensure alternate escape routes remained open and safe for residents. The Maui Emergency Management Agency later issued a statement debunking the rumors and urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation during crises.

Oprah’s Record of Disaster Relief in Hawaii

This is not Oprah’s first involvement in a Hawaii disaster. In 2023, during the devastating Lāhainā wildfire, she opened parts of her property to facilitate relief and later made significant donations to support survivors. In the wake of the tsunami, Oprah reiterated her support for the Maui community and her willingness to assist in emergency efforts.

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Public Reaction and Ongoing Recovery

While some social media users remained skeptical, others defended Oprah and called out the dangers of spreading unverified claims during emergencies. Residents near the estate shared videos confirming that roads were open and evacuation efforts were not obstructed. With tsunami waters receding, local officials are focused on recovery while warning residents to rely only on trusted news sources during future alerts.

Misinformation in the Wake of Disaster

The Maui tsunami prompted swift evacuations and an unfortunate wave of false narratives. Oprah Winfrey’s clarification underscores the importance of factual reporting and responsible social sharing, especially when lives are on the line. As Hawaii rebuilds and reflects, the focus must remain on truth, safety, and community.