Flight and Weather Conditions
While on a VFR en route flight, the pilot encountered deteriorating weather conditions at the destination airport, which was 30 miles away. The conditions had dropped to IFR levels. The pilot attempted to deviate around the weather.
Fuel Situation and Power Loss
With the aircraft low on fuel, the pilot continued toward the airport in lowering ceilings at 700 feet AGL. The engine subsequently lost power, necessitating a forced landing. The aircraft came to rest 3.5 miles from the intended airport.
Forced Landing and Damage
During the landing flare and touchdown, the right wing struck a fence post. This impact caused damage to the right wing skin, wing ribs, and the right flap.
Investigation Findings
An investigation into the incident revealed that only unusable fuel remained in both fuel tanks at the time of the forced landing.