Incident Overview
The pilot reported that thunderstorms and showers were moving through the area at the time, with a strong crosswind present. After flying around the area for about 30 minutes, the pilot returned for landing.
First Landing Attempt
The pilot attempted a landing to runway 28 with no flaps extended. The airspeed was too high, prompting a go-around.
Second Landing Attempt
During the second attempt with one notch of flaps extended, the aircraft touched down. The pilot maintained directional control until the tail touched down, at which point a strong gust of wind from the left hit the aircraft. The pilot had difficulty maintaining directional control and increased power to go-around. The engine momentarily hesitated, and the aircraft began to travel to the right side, heading off the runway surface at about a 45-degree angle toward airport hangars.
Runway Excursion and Collisions
The aircraft traveled through the median and taxiway ramp before becoming airborne. Just prior to colliding with the first hangar, the pilot banked the airplane to the left, but the right wing clipped the corner of the hangar. The aircraft continued for about another 50 yards before colliding into the roof of a second hangar.
Witness Reports
Witnesses reported that the strong gusting wind was out of the south at about 15 to 20 knots with thunderstorms in the area.