KATHMANDU, Nov 8 (AFP) - An earthquake measuring 4.9 on the open-ended Richter scale Friday rocked Mepal's Humla district, 405 kilometres (253 miles) northwest of here, adjoining Tibet, the mines and geology department said.

The quake occurred at 6:40 a.m. (0055 GMT) and lasted for more than twelve seconds, a department official said.

There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

An earthquake measuring five on the Richter scale can cause considerable damage.