A chaotic scene unfolded in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, this week when a dump truck dispatched to repair an existing sinkhole was unexpectedly swallowed by a second, newly formed collapse. The incident has trapped the vehicle, damaged critical infrastructure, and prompted a local state of emergency, leaving residents grappling with evacuations and utility outages.
Sequence of Sinkhole Events
The initial sinkhole emerged on Monday at the intersection of Summit Avenue and Lewis Street, leading authorities to close the area. On Tuesday, just before 1 p.m., a dump truck arrived to deliver asphalt for authorized repairs when the ground gave way approximately 20 to 30 feet from the original collapse. The second sinkhole engulfed the truck, with the driver sustaining minor injuries, according to reports from WFMZ.
Immediate Impact on Residents
The collapse severely damaged a water main, cutting off service to around 20 Aqua New Jersey utility customers. Many residents have been left without heat or water, prompting an optional evacuation order for homes on the street due to concerns that the sinkhole might be larger than initially assessed.
Desiree Page, who evacuated her home, expressed shock and frustration. "Honestly, I am still in shock – that is not something you hear at all," Page told NBC New York. "There’s no anything. I have kids. There’s no heat, no water, nothing – they’re telling everyone to head out if they need to."
Ongoing Repair Efforts and Challenges
Repair work was paused on Wednesday as the sinkhole continued to expand, and as of Wednesday evening, the dump truck remained lodged in place. The Town of Phillipsburg declared a state of local emergency on Tuesday, enabling access to additional resources for assessment and planning.
In a Facebook post on Thursday morning, town officials noted that while electricity has been restored to most homes, some areas still experience reduced water pressure or complete outages. Crews are actively monitoring the situation, with radar technology being deployed to evaluate the stability of nearby roads and determine if further evacuations are necessary.
Official Statements and Safety Measures
"Our primary focus remains the safety of our residents and the workers on site. Every effort is being made to resolve the situation as quickly and safely as possible," the Town of Phillipsburg stated in their Facebook update. Authorities are urging pedestrians and drivers to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
Residents have been advised to report any roadway changes, such as sinking or sudden depressions, to the Phillipsburg Police Department. The Independent has reached out to the Town of Phillipsburg and the Phillipsburg Police Department for additional comments on the ongoing crisis.
Broader Implications and Community Response
This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of sinkholes and their potential to exacerbate existing infrastructure problems. The dual collapses have not only disrupted daily life but also raised questions about ground stability in the region. As repairs continue, the community remains on alert, with officials working tirelessly to restore normalcy and ensure public safety amidst the unfolding emergency.
