I really felt it here in Brooklyn. I work as a nanny on the second floor of an old apartment building. Both babies were sleeping, so all was VERY QUIET AND STILL. When it started, I thought there must be men working on the building, but it didn't stop. (Earthquakes and terrorism were really not in my mind.) I could feel and see our building swaying from side to side. It was the same feeling as standing on a moving subway. Mom was with the infant, so I went in to check on the toddler, in case I needed to take her and leave. The shaking actually woke her up. It must have lasted about 10 seconds. It was the same feeling as standing on a moving subway. People began to gather in the street, and it became almost impossible to get cell phone calls through. It didn't seem like they were panicking, but I suppose here in NYC, people have become extra vigilant about perceived danger. Even after it stopped, I couldn't help but to start to make an emergency evacuation plan.
We've all heard the question, "if you have to leave your house and can only grab one item, what would it be?" Now I know what my item would be - shoes. For some reason, I began planning how I was going to run down the steps carrying a toddler and shoes for 3 of us. It was very disturbing for me, since I've never felt an earthquake before. I felt lightheaded and a little nauseous for about an hour after.
So I was shaken - both literally and emotionally! It turned out fine for us, though. And I hope the best for those closest to the epicenter.