4.8-Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Eastern Nevada, Felt in Las Vegas

A 5.3-magnitude earthquake was felt in Las Vegas and surrounding areas Friday morning.

The U.S. Geological Survey said that the quake, which hit at 11:47 a.m. local time (8:47 a.m. Hawaii time), was centered about 24 miles south-southwest of the town of Caliente, which is located about 152 miles north of Las Vegas.

The magnitude 4.8 event was felt as far away as Las Vegas and was relatively shallow. Reports indicate there were two short tremors that lasted for about two minutes, and a rocking motion for a few seconds. One report from Las Vegas said the earthquake shook the whole house, and felt like something crashed into the house.

This is the strongest earthquake to hit Nevada since a magnitude-6.0 temblor hit northeast Nevada on Feb. 21, 2008, injuring three and damaging hundreds of buildings, according to weather.com senior meteorologist Nick Wiltgen.

Several aftershocks followed the initial quake, but none so far have been stronger than 3.8. The initial tremor was also felt in southern Utah, but there were no reports of injuries or damage there, NBC News reported.

Officials said no injuries or other significant damage was reported.