Flight Diversion
While en route, the pilot noted thunderstorms and towering cumulus clouds over the Tehachapi Mountains and elected to divert to Hesperia. The pilot stated that all fields within range had 'severe winds and storms closing.'
Landing Incident
During the landing at Hesperia, there was a direct, right crosswind with gusts to 26 knots. While landing, the aircraft veered off the left side of the runway, and the left wing struck the ground. The pilot stated that the aircraft was capable of landing in crosswinds up to 18 knots.
Weather Conditions
Approximately 15 miles northwest at Victorville, California, the 1655 PDT wind was from 250 degrees at 10 knots gusting to 20 knots. The pilot's account indicated that the crosswind at Hesperia exceeded the aircraft's stated crosswind capability.