A strong earthquake has struck parts of Taiwan, rattling buildings in the capital, Taipei, although there are no initial reports of serious casualties.

The earthquake was measured at a magnitude of 6.4 by the US Geological Survey.

It was centred off the east coast of Taiwan, about 25km (12 miles) south-east of Hualien, at a depth of 45km.

Taiwan is regularly hit by minor tremors although an earthquake in 1999 killed almost 2,500 people.

No tsunami alert was immediately given by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre.

Local media reported the collapse of one building near Taipei, where structures shook for about 30 seconds.

The reports spoke of four minor casualties in the capital and suspensions of some rail networks.