SUNNYVALE (KRON) — Three lanes of northbound Lawerence Expressway in Sunnyvale are blocked Friday afternoon due to a sinkhole, according to the city’s department of public safety.

Crews said repairs are underway. The sinkhole is just north of East Arques Avenue, officials said at 1:20 p.m.

The county’s Roads and Airports Department discovered the 12- by 12-foot sinkhole that measures 8 feet deep Friday morning, according to county officials.

The Santa Clara County Roads and Airports Department alerted the department of the road closure, public safety officials said.

Cars are being allowed on the far right lane of northbound Lawrence Expressway, county officials said.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area. Repairs to the sinkhole that has closed the thoroughly traveled roadway in Sunnyvale may continue into the weekend, according to Santa Clara County officials.

A preliminary assessment of the site showed water at the bottom of the sinkhole. Utility workers found no underground lines impacted by the sinkhole, according to county officials.

Crews are assessing the area and will make emergency repairs that may last through the weekend.Bay City News contributed to this report.