Multiple sinkholes trigger emergency in Phillipsburg after dump truck collapse

A state of local emergency has been declared in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, after multiple sinkholes opened along Summit Avenue near Lewis Street, swallowing a dump truck and forcing evacuations.

The situation began when the roadway first buckled earlier in the week. During repair operations, a dump truck delivering materials fell into a separate section of the roadway that collapsed beneath it. A second vehicle was also swallowed by another sinkhole nearby. The truck driver sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene.

Local officials confirmed that at least three sinkholes have opened, while ground-penetrating radar surveys identified several additional underground voids beneath the roadway. Engineers reported continued ground movement at the intersection, with one area dropping several inches overnight.

Seven homes have been deemed unsafe and evacuated. Approximately 100 properties temporarily lost power, and up to 30 homes were without water after underground utilities were compromised. Aqua New Jersey confirmed a water main was damaged during the incident, though it had been intact before the truck fell into the collapse zone.

Authorities stated that sidewalks in the area are sagging and that voids are extending closer to residential structures. Crews are working to stabilize the ground by backfilling and securing the initial collapse areas before heavy equipment can safely remove the trapped truck.

Geologists note that Phillipsburg sits in a valley underlain by limestone, terrain that can be susceptible to natural surface collapse into underground cavities.

Officials have not provided a firm timeline for full restoration but estimate repairs may take several days to weeks. The affected neighborhood remains under close monitoring as investigations continue.