5.5 magnitude quake hits southern Iran

A 5.5 magnitude earthquake jolted the city of Bam in south-east Iran early today, state media reported.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage caused by the quake, which struck at about 7.58am local time (4,28am Irish time).

Bam is about 630 miles south-east of the capital Tehran.

A quake with a magnitude of five to six can cause moderate damage in populated areas.

Iran is prone to earthquakes. Last June, a 6.1-magnitude quake struck the north-west of the country, killing 245 people and leaving thousands homeless.