A massive 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 December 26, causing significant traffic disruptions. The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has confirmed the eastbound lanes will remain closed until repairs are completed. Reports indicate the NJDOT first discovered the sinkhole around 7:45 a.m.
The situation has left many commuters frustrated, as motorists are advised to avoid the area and use alternate routes such as Route 46 or the designated detour via Route 15 southbound. This detour allows drivers to re-enter I-80 near the Rockaway Townsquare Mall. Local traffic congestion has become evident due to the detours as police warn of increased traffic volume around the affected area.
The exact cause of the sinkhole remains under investigation. Residents have speculated the presence of mine shafts nearby might be related. A state geological map shows several abandoned iron mines operating as far back as the 1800s, including one known as the old Mount Pleasant mine, located about 25 to 50 feet from the sinkhole site.
"NJDOT crews responded immediately and are on site continuing to evaluate the situation, determine the extent of the damage, and stabilize the area in order to design a repair," officials stated. Repair crews face the challenge of crafting a plan before any work can begin, with the timeline for repairs dependent on weather and other factors.
Drivers are encouraged to check the NJDOT website regularly for updates about the situation and best alternate routes. No definitive timeline has been provided for when the eastbound lanes will reopen.
Meanwhile, the westbound lanes of I-80 remain unaffected. A live feed from the 511nj.org website shortly after 5 p.m. showed traffic flowing smoothly on the westbound side, contrasting with the long lines of vehicles at the standstill as they navigate to take Exit 34.
Sinkholes like the one at Wharton are often caused by the dissolution of specific types of rock beneath the ground, leading to collapse. They typically form over time as groundwater breaks down minerals within the underlying rock, creating voids until the ground finally gives way—an issue not uncommon across several states due to various geological factors. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, identifying signs of developing sinkholes includes leaning trees or the sudden formation of rain ponds where there were none before.
To date, sinkhole-related damages account for approximately $300 million annually across the U.S. as the geological realities persist. With significant traffic delays expected for the foreseeable future, local authorities are urging residents to stay informed about the developments surrounding this major traffic artery.
Authorities promise to provide updates as repair plans are confirmed. Until then, it’s clear the impact of this unexpected closure will ripple through the Wharton community and beyond as drivers find their way around the disruptions on one of New Jersey's key highways.
