5.8 magnitude earthquake hits southeast Ecuador

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake today struck southeast Ecuador, sparking panic, though there were no immediate reports in injuries or property damage, officials said.

The earthquake occurred at 6:20 am in Guayaquil, in Guayas province, at a depth of 71 kilometers, Ecuador's Geophysical Institute said.

The rumble could be felt in neighboring provinces.

Emergency services said no injuries, deaths or damage had been reported, but in a message on social media called for calm in the region.