Strong quake hits Taiwan, causing minor damage

TAIPEI, Taiwan - A strong earthquake has struck southern Taiwan, causing minor property damage in a mountainous area near the coastal city of Pingtung. There were no immediate reports of casualties.

Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau says the quake struck at 10:35 a.m. (0235 GMT) Sunday, about 19 miles (30 kilometers) from Pingtung. It says the quake had a magnitude of 6.1.

The U.S. Geological Survey put the magnitude at 5.9.

Taiwan television showed pictures of minor damage in the Pingtung area.