6.2 quake hits off Mexico coast

(AP) — A 6.2-magnitude earthquake rattled the southern part of Mexico's Baja California peninsula Tuesday and was felt strongly in the city of La Paz.

State civil defense director Carlos Rincon said there were no immediate reports of damages or injuries in La Paz, a tranquil fishing and resort city.

State Governor Marcos Covarrubias announced that classes at public schools in the state would be cancelled today, so experts can evaluate any possible damage to school buildings.

The US Geological Survey said the quake was centered about 47 miles or 75 kilometers north-northeast of La Paz in Baja California Sur.

The USGS said the quake occurred at about 4.45 p.m. and was centered offshore in the Gulf of California.

About twenty minutes later, a 4.6-magnitude aftershock occurred about 24 miles or 38 kilometers north of La Paz, along with a 4.8 temblor about 8 miles or 14 kilometers further out in the Gulf of California about 12 minutes later.

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