GUATEMALA CITY - A strong earthquake of magnitude 6.1 struck off the Pacific coast of Guatemala on Monday, sending residents of the capital into the streets in panic but there were no immediate reports of major damage or injuries. The quake was felt in the capital for up to a minute and residents reported paintings fell from walls in their homes.

"We have no reports of damages ... it was a strong quake but we hope there are no (serious) consequences," said Eddy Sanchez, director of Guatemala's seismological institute.

Radio stations reported electricity blackouts in Guatemala City and the city of Escuintla.

The quake struck at 9:03 p.m. (11:03 p.m. EDT) with an epicenter 45 miles south-southeast of Escuintla, the U.S. Geological Survey said.

An earthquake of 6.1 is capable of causing severe damage. USGS reported the quake was at a depth of 49.4 miles (79.5 km).