A landslide that struck Interstate 80 in northern New Jersey on Thursday forced authorities to close the eastbound lanes of the busy highway.

The landslide was discovered Thursday morning near the town of Wharton, about 40 miles (64 km) west of New York City.

Crews are working to repair the landslide, which has created a large pothole on the right shoulder of the highway. It's too early to say how long the repairs will take, said Steve Shapiro, a spokesman for the New Jersey Department of Transportation.

The closure comes as traffic is lighter than usual for the holiday. Drivers are being directed to a short detour to get back on the highway. The highway connects northern New Jersey to the state of Pennsylvania.

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