of major earthquake strikes taiwan; rattles buildings

Major Earthquake Strikes Taiwan; Rattles Buildings: A 6.4-magnitude quake struck the eastern coast of Taiwan, about 16 miles from Hua-lien.

A large earthquake struck Taiwan on Saturday, rattling buildings in the capital of Taipei.

The U.S. Geological Survey said the 6.4-magnitude quake was centered off the eastern coast of Taiwan, about 16 miles (25 kilometers) from Hua-lien. It struck at a depth of 28 miles (45 kilometers). The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center did not immediately issue any warning.

Local TV reports said four minor casualties were reported in the capital. The reports said Taipei's subways and the island's high speed railroad were suspended.

There was some damage to property in a community near the quake's epicenter.

Earthquakes frequently rattle Taiwan but most are minor and cause little or no damage.

A preliminary report from The U.S. Geological Survey reports the following information:

Magnitude 6.4 TAIWAN
Saturday, December 19, 2009 at 13:02:16 UTC
Magnitude 6.4
Location 23.76N 121.69E
Depth 44.6 kilometers
Region TAIWAN