WHARTON, N.J. — A section of Interstate 80 in northern New Jersey was closed on Friday due to repairs necessitated by a recent sinkhole that affected the eastbound lanes. As of now, it remains unclear when these lanes will be allowed to reopen.

The sinkhole, measuring approximately 40 feet wide, formed when an abandoned mine collapsed beneath the highway’s right shoulder on Thursday morning, as stated by representatives from the New Jersey Department of Transportation. The guardrail along the highway was left hanging precariously over the large opening, drawing attention to the severity of the damage.

This situation has compelled motorists to navigate a temporary detour in the vicinity of Wharton, which lies roughly 40 miles west of New York City. The road crews have been working diligently to stabilize the region and have commenced excavation efforts to address the damage.

According to the highway department, crews are set to work around the clock in an attempt to expedite the necessary repairs. However, the timeframe for the reopening of the eastbound lanes will largely depend on the scale of the repairs required and the forecasted weather, leading officials to advise that drivers should expect continued delays and consider alternative routes.