Oprah Winfrey is facing significant online backlash for allegedly not opening her private road connecting Wailea to Kula, Hawaii, as thousands of residents evacuate to higher ground following a tsunami warning.
Traffic Jams Amid Evacuations
Videos circulating on social media depict massive traffic jams across Hawaii, particularly on Maui, as people rush to escape low-lying areas. Some social media users contend that “Oprah is still refusing to open her private road,” claiming it could ease congestion and expedite evacuations.
However, LoudFact could not independently verify these allegations.
Social Media Reactions
Why hasn’t Oprah opened her road?
This could save lives… https://t.co/ghyyY54Em5 pic.twitter.com/DvrUKSIAJ4
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) July 30, 2025
The online response has been heated. One user commented, “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. Massive traffic in Maui with thousands trying to escape the massive tsunami coming. Open the road, Oprah.”
Another user wrote, “Oprah Winfrey reportedly refused to open her private road from Wailea to Kula—a potentially life-saving route for many coastal residents attempting to evacuate as the tsunami rapidly approaches Maui.”
As the situation develops and residents continue to seek safe passage, the community remains divided on the actions of high-profile individuals like Oprah Winfrey. Concern for safety and the urgency of evacuations have fueled a critical conversation about access during emergencies.
