Overview
A non-instrument rated pilot conducted a flight after receiving a full weather briefing. During the briefing, the pilot was informed that visual flight rules (VFR) flight was not recommended. The forecaster also indicated that while conditions were expected to improve, the possibility of scattered thunderstorms remained.
Weather Briefing and Preflight
The pilot obtained a comprehensive weather briefing prior to departure. The briefing included an advisory that VFR flight was not recommended due to existing conditions. Additionally, the pilot was told that although conditions were forecast to improve, scattered thunderstorms could still develop.
In-Flight Events
During the flight, air traffic control twice advised the pilot that weather cells were located along his intended flight path. The controller offered radar vectors to navigate around the cells. The pilot initially declined the vectors and continued his course. Only after the aircraft entered an area of heavy rain did the pilot accept radar vectors.
Descent
After accepting vectors, the pilot turned the aircraft 80 degrees to the right. Shortly after this turn, radar contact with the aircraft was lost. The aircraft then descended into a gravel road in a steep, nose-down attitude.