The collapse of an abandoned mineshaft is the cause of a massive 40-foot by 40-foot sinkhole that shut down part of Interstate 80 (I-80) in New Jersey, according to the State Department of Transportation.

A sinkhole emerged Thursday along Interstate 80 in northern New Jersey, prompting the closure of all eastbound lanes. Located near Wharton, roughly 40 miles west of New York City, the sinkhole leaves a striking depression on the highway's right shoulder.

Interstate 80 East in New Jersey will be closed until further notice after a sinkhole opened up during rush hour Thursday morning, shuttering eastbound lanes in Morris County. The sinkhole opened up around 7:45 a.