Impact of Hurricane Harvey on travelers

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Several passengers changed their traveling plans to beat Hurricane Harvey's path.

"I feel pretty lucky to be getting out just in time for that."

University of Pennsylvania student Jennifer Li is counting her blessings.

She's among those who got what may be one of the final flights out of Houston for days.

She'll start classes next week, while her family in Texas waits out a potentially catastrophic storm.

"Definitely concerned. Everyone's concerned about what's going to happen during the storm, flooding, what's going to happen outdoors," Li said.

As flights arrive from Houston, passengers express uncertainty about what they'll see when they return.

Amanda Leather of Houston said, "We live north of the city so our home is fine, but people in the city in apartments on streets, they're not going to be in good shape if the storm stays."

The boards don't show it, but airlines have preemptively grounded more than 200 weekend flights across the country. Waiving rebooking fees as many travelers scramble to get out.

Arun Kulkarmi of King of Prussia said, "My flight was full and they were offering those who wait to stay back." Did anyone volunteer? "I don't think so."

With The storm approaching, Marty Dugan cut short his trip to San Antonio to see his daughter's family. He'll be watching the storm from afar but remains optimistic they'll be spared the worst of it.

"They have a nice home on high ground, so I think they'll be ok," said Marty Dugan of Odessa, Delaware.

Major airlines are offering travel vouchers to those flying to the affected areas.

If you are heading to the airport this weekend, check the airline websites before you leave home.

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