Accident Overview
A certificated private pilot was step taxiing a seaplane westbound, preparing for a departure to the south. During the taxi, the airplane initially benefited from a shoreline that provided protection from a left crosswind. The pilot noted that after passing beyond this protective area, a sudden gust of wind lifted the left wing.
Sequence of Events
The gust caused the right wing to strike the water surface. The impact pivoted the airplane to the right, and subsequently the left wing also struck the water.
Damage
Both the right and left wings sustained substantial damage as a result of the water strikes.
Wind Conditions
The pilot reported that wind conditions at the time of the accident were from varying directions, with peak gusts reaching 10 knots.