Even as the threat of a tsunami swamping Hawaii had passed on Wednesday, social media posts were still circulating claims that Oprah Winfrey had refused immediate access to a private road that would allow residents a shorter evacuation route.

Winfrey has assured fans that she opened up her private road in Hawaii "as soon as" she heard the tsunami warnings.

Her spokesperson said the road on Winfrey’s property is owned by Haleakalā Ranch. Winfrey has an easement agreement with the ranch.