Va gov: Earthquake damage 'very minor'

RICHMOND, Va.(AP) - Gov. Bob McDonnell says there appears to be no major damage or injuries from a 5.8 magnitude earthquake that hit near Mineral.

McDonnell said Tuesday that preliminary reports show that damage and injuries were "very, very minor."

Some polling places open for Tuesday's legislative primaries were inactive for up to 30 minutes, but McDonnell said there was no reason to cancel or postpone the election. Polls close at 7 p.m.

In Louisa, the middle school and high school suffered damage. Crews were checking bridges and government buildings statewide.

Two nuclear reactors at the North Anna Power Station, located near the epicenter, were automatically taken off line by safety systems.

Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) released the following statement following Tuesday's earthquake:

"I am relieved to hear initial reports of limited damage and injuries from today's quake.

"We are reaching out to state and local officials to see what federal resources or assistance they might need. We also have been in touch with officials at Dominion Virginia Power and they assure us the North Anna Nuclear Power Station, near the quake's epicenter in Louisa County, was taken offline safely.

"I urge Virginians to be safe -- and certainly patient -- as we assess any damage from this remarkable and unsettling event."