Departure and Wind Conditions
The pilot reported that the accident occurred during departure for a return flight to his home airport, after having landed earlier. He observed 'terrific' winds while standing outside a hangar. When contacting ground control, the pilot was instructed to taxi to Runway 17. However, noticing that the windsock favored Runway 21, he requested and received approval to use Runway 21 instead.
Takeoff and Loss of Directional Control
Shortly after liftoff, the pilot reported that the wind 'blew the airplane' to the right and off the runway centerline. The airplane then crossed over a drainage ditch, made a 180-degree turn, and struck the ditch. At the time of the accident, the reported winds were 190 degrees at 24 knots, with gusts to 30 knots.
Post-Accident Information
No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or injuries were provided in the source. The pilot's account is the sole basis for this report.