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A large sinkhole has forced the closure of Interstate 80 eastbound near Exit 34 in Wharton, New Jersey. The sinkhole, which measures 40 feet wide and 40 feet deep, opened during rush hour on Thursday (December 26), causing significant traffic disruptions. The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has confirmed that the eastbound lanes will remain closed until further notice as crews work to assess and repair the damage.
According to NJDOT officials, the sinkhole was discovered at 7:45 a.m., affecting the highway's right shoulder and encroaching on the right lane. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and use alternate routes such as Route 46 or the designated detour via Route 15 southbound, which allows drivers to re-enter I-80 near the Rockaway-Townsquare Mall.
The cause of the sinkhole is still under investigation, and no timeline has been provided for when the highway will reopen. NJDOT crews are currently evaluating the situation and designing a repair plan. The precise timing of the work may change due to weather or other factors.
Meanwhile, traffic on the westbound lanes of I-80 remains unaffected, though police warn of increased traffic in the area as vehicles are diverted through town.