Incident Details
While approaching Sioux Falls, the pilot received information that weather conditions were below minimums and initiated a diversion. As the aircraft passed over Sioux Falls, the pilot observed that Mitchell, South Dakota appeared clear and elected to land there.
The weather continued to appear clear until the aircraft was on a short final approach for landing. With the landing light illuminated, the pilot lost visual references. After switching the landing light off, the runway lights became visible again at approximately 20 feet above ground level (AGL). As the aircraft descended further, the lights became barely visible. The pilot flared at an angle to the runway. By this time, the pilot realized the aircraft was headed for the edge of the runway, but it was too late to correct or initiate a go-around.
The aircraft touched down with approximately half of the landing gear on the runway and half off. After traveling about 20 feet in snow approximately 6 inches deep, the nose gear failed.