Oprah Winfrey Opens Private Road in Hawaii for Tsunami Evacuees amid Rumors She Had Blocked It

The billionaire producer has since responded to the allegations in a statement issued by her representative. The rumors began shortly after Maui residents received tsunami evacuation orders following a massive earthquake.

Oprah Winfrey has cleared the air after rumors that she was denying safe passage to tsunami evacuees. The speculation followed an 8.8 magnitude earthquake that struck off Russia’s east coast on Wednesday, July 30.

It was the sixth most powerful quake ever recorded, sending potentially devastating waves across the Pacific Ocean, putting nations from Japan to the United States on high alert. Hawaii was among the affected U.S. states, where residents were urged to evacuate to higher ground.

Winfrey owns an estate in Maui County, on the island of Maui, through which is a gated private road. Whispers began circulating that the 71-year-old was blocking access to that road from people seeking passage after the evacuation orders were issued.

The rumors gained traction after a local Maui resident posted a video on X claiming he was outside the former TV host's home with police guarding the property. "Come on, Oprah. Save us!" the man says in the clip. Winfrey has since responded.

"As soon as we heard the tsunami warnings, we contacted local law enforcement and FEMA to ensure the road was opened," her spokesperson told CNN and multiple other media outlets. "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," they added.

A Maui County news release also corroborated the response, stating: "Oprah's road is open to get Upcountry, according to Maui Police Department."