Amid the recent tsunami warning in Maui, Hawaii, Oprah Winfrey has become the center of a growing controversy.

 

 

 

Thousands of residents scrambled to evacuate low-lying areas as massive traffic jams clogged the roads, with many turning to social media to express their frustration and anger.

The core of the backlash stems from claims that Oprah refused to open her private road connecting Wailea to Kula, a route that many believe could have significantly eased congestion and provided a faster evacuation path to higher ground.

Videos circulating online show the severity of the situation, with vehicles stuck in long lines and people desperate to escape the approaching tsunami.

The images have stirred public outcry, with several users accusing Oprah of withholding access to a crucial escape route during a life-threatening emergency.

 

 

 

Oprah denies private road access as Hawaiians flee 10-foot-high tsunami

 

 

 

 

Comments on various platforms demand that she “open the road” to help save lives, highlighting the urgency and gravity of the situation.

One person wrote, “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.”

This sentiment was echoed by many others who saw the private road as a potential lifesaver amid the chaos.

Another user expressed disbelief, asking, “Why ON EARTH would you choose not to open your own private road that would allow people to get to higher ground safely?

Be a hero (or just a decent human) and open the road Oprah Winfrey.

 

 

 

Notícias sobre Oprah Winfrey | Exame

 

 

 

Do the right thing.”

The mounting pressure on Oprah to grant access has only intensified as the tsunami threat loomed larger.

Several people highlighted the dire situation of families trapped in gridlock with their children, emphasizing how crucial every minute was in reaching safety.

“Wait, so people are trapped with their kids in gridlock and Oprah’s private road is just… chilling?

Hopefully it’s open soon or these people find another way to get to higher ground.

Scary,” one comment read, capturing the fear and frustration of many in the community.

Oprah Winfrey’s ownership of multiple properties in Maui is well known.

 

 

 

 

 

Open the road, Oprah': Hawaii tsunami chaos sparks backlash over private  route in Maui - BusinessToday

 

 

 

She owns nearly 1,000 acres across the island, with significant holdings in the Kula region and parts of Hana.

Her initial purchase included two parcels totaling 163 acres, acquired in 2002 and 2003, which she developed into a modern farmhouse retreat.

Over time, she expanded her landholdings by acquiring an additional 870 acres of agricultural land, solidifying her status as one of the island’s largest private landowners.

The controversy raises questions about the responsibilities of private landowners during public emergencies.

While the road in question is private property, many argue that extraordinary circumstances like a tsunami warning call for cooperation and compassion.

 

 

 

Oprah Winfrey refuse to open private Maui road during Hawaii tsunami  evacuation? - VIDEO | News.az

 

 

 

The public expectation is that owners should consider the greater good and allow access if it can help save lives.

In response to the backlash, Oprah’s representatives have remained largely silent, only stating that she had “her reasons” for not opening the road.

This vague explanation has done little to quell the growing unrest among residents and online commentators, who continue to demand transparency and accountability.

Legal and logistical issues may be part of the reason behind Oprah’s decision.

Private roads often come with restrictions and liabilities that owners must consider before granting access, especially in chaotic emergency situations.

There may be concerns about safety, security, or potential damage to property that complicate the decision.

However, these factors have done little to calm public frustration, as many feel that in a crisis, such concerns should be secondary to human lives.

 

 

Why Oprah Winfrey Is Facing Backlash After Hawaii Tsunami Alert? - Oneindia  News

 

 

 

The situation on Maui highlights the challenges that can arise when private property intersects with public emergencies.

It underscores the importance of clear policies and communication between landowners, local authorities, and communities to ensure that critical infrastructure can be used effectively during disasters.

As the tsunami threat subsides, the debate around Oprah’s decision remains unresolved.

The incident has sparked a wider conversation about social responsibility, especially for influential figures who control significant resources.

Many are watching closely to see whether Oprah will reconsider her stance and allow access to the road, or if the controversy will fade as the immediate danger passes.

Ultimately, the Maui tsunami evacuation serves as a stark reminder of how natural disasters expose vulnerabilities not only in infrastructure but also in community cooperation and preparedness.

 

 

 

Oprah forced to open up private land as panicked residents flee devastating  Hawaii fire - The Mirror

 

 

 

The backlash against Oprah Winfrey reflects broader societal expectations that, in times of crisis, private interests should sometimes yield to the urgent needs of the public.

Whether this expectation is fair or realistic continues to be debated, but the emotional weight behind it is undeniable.

The hope remains that all involved can learn from this experience to better support each other when facing future emergencies.