Nicaragua rattled by moderate 5.1-magnitude quake

MANAGUA — Western Nicaragua has been rattled by a moderate 5.1-magnitude earthquake, but there are no immediate reports of damage or injuries.

Government spokeswoman Rosario Murillo says electrical power has been knocked out in a township near the epicenter, but says there are no reports of any other significant damage.

The US Geological Survey gave the magnitude as 5.1, and said the quake occurred around 10:49 a.m. local time (12:49 EDT; 1649 GMT).

The quake was centered about 27 miles (45 kilometers) northwest of Managua.

Murillo said the country is well-prepared to handle quakes, but said that while there's no panic, "there is nervousness because that is inevitable in these cases."