Strong Earthquake Rocks Costa Rica

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica (AP) – A strong earthquake shook Costa Rica on Thursday, shattering windows, cracking walls and sending frightened residents running into the streets of the capital.

There were no immediate reports of injuries or major damage.

The U.S. Geological Survey said the 6.1 magnitude temblor was centered 22 miles (35 kilometers) northwest of the capital of San Jose in the early afternoon, near the Poas Volcano national park.

The quake’s depth was measured at 28 miles (35 kilometers).

Local TV station Teletica showed broken windows, fallen ceiling panels and cracked walls in the city of Alajuela, north of the capital. Teletica said the quake was felt strongly throughout the small Central American country.

Security Minister Jeanina del Vecchio urged people to remain calm while authorities surveyed areas to see if there was major damage.

Thousands of people ran from homes and shopping centers, frightened by the quake. The quake triggered small landslides outside the capital, and cell phone service was interrupted briefly.

There were at least four aftershocks.

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