Rockslide closes Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in the Poconos

JIM THORPE, Pa. (WPVI) -- A rockslide along Route 209 north of Jim Thorpe has partially collapsed the roadway and prompted closures that are affecting travel in the area.

Rock and debris from the slide also reportedly impacted nearby railroad tracks between Jim Thorpe and Nesquehoning. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation crews and fire police began implementing road closures, which could affect both lanes of traffic on the highway.

Officials have not released information about injuries or an estimated timeline for reopening the roadway.

The disruption also forced the cancellation of service on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. The railway announced that all trains scheduled for Saturday were canceled due to unforeseen circumstances.

Authorities urged motorists to avoid the area and seek alternate routes while crews assess the damage and work to stabilize the site.