Tsunami Strikes Pacific Region

A massive 8.8-magnitude undersea earthquake near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula triggered tsunami waves across the Pacific. Hawaii, Japan, Russia, and several other countries issued evacuation warnings. In Hawaii, rising panic led to gridlocked roads as residents raced to higher ground.

Oprah Under Fire

As evacuation efforts intensified, a viral video on X (formerly Twitter) showed a long line of cars near Maui’s Thompson Road—part of Oprah Winfrey’s private estate. The clip, viewed over 2 million times, accused the media mogul of refusing to open her private gate, potentially delaying life-saving escape routes.

One man in the video stated, “We’re stuck and a tsunami is coming,” as he filmed the closed gates. Online users quickly condemned Oprah. “Why hasn’t Oprah opened her road?” one asked. Another added, “A life-saving route is closed while people are stuck in gridlock.”

Clarification Emerges

According to Hawaii News Now and NBC News, Thompson Road is a public road that runs through Winfrey’s private property. Despite accusations, a spokesperson confirmed the road had already been opened in coordination with local authorities and FEMA.

Police and Community Confirm Access

Maui Police Department confirmed the road was open in a public tsunami update at 7:16 p.m. They recommended drivers use multiple evacuation routes, including “Oprah’s road to get Upcountry.”

Official Statement from Winfrey’s Team

Oprah’s spokesperson addressed the claims directly:

“As soon as we heard the tsunami warnings, we contacted law enforcement and FEMA to ensure the road was opened. Any reports otherwise are false. Officers are now guiding cars through the road—50 at a time—to maintain safety. It will remain open as long as needed.”

Global Impact

The tsunami affected coastal areas in Hawaii, California, Japan, and Russia. While damages were reported, no casualties have been confirmed. Millions across the Pacific remain on alert as evacuation and aid efforts continue.