Following the tsunami warning in Hawaii caused by an 8.8 magnitude earthquake near Russia, many residents raced to get to safety. Amid the chaos, claims started to spread online accusing Oprah Winfrey of closing her private road on her Maui estate, potentially blocking evacuation efforts.
Thompson Road, which runs through Oprah’s property but is a public roadway, caught attention after videos showed stuck traffic and people urging the gate to open. Social media users voiced frustration and concern for those trying to reach higher ground.
Authorities quickly clarified that the road was open and police were handling vehicle flow to assist evacuation. Oprah’s team confirmed she worked closely with local agencies to ensure the roadway remained accessible. They labeled the claims about the road being shut as false.
Police advised residents to use Thompson Road along with other alternate routes to evacuate safely. Even as the tsunami alert was downgraded to an advisory, officials urged ongoing caution near waters.
This situation reminds us how misinformation can spread fast but that cooperation among residents and officials is crucial during emergencies.
