Moderate earthquake hits Mexico coast, felt in city

MEXICO CITY, Aug 19 (Reuters) A moderate earthquake rocked Mexico's Pacific coast early today close to the popular beach resort of Huatulco and was felt as far away as Mexico City, but no damage was reported.

The epicenter of the 5.5 magnitude quake was close to the surfing hotspot Puerto Escondido, but also shook the capital 240 miles (385 km) to the northwest, Mexico's national seismological service said.

''People have called to say they felt it but we haven't received any reports of damage,'' said Yanet Antayhua at the monitoring center.

A strong tremor rattled Mexico City last week without causing major damage, but brought back memories of a devastating 1985 quake that killed thousands.

Huatulco and Puerto Escondido are both in the state of Oaxaca.

REUTERS MS DS1250