Sequence of Events
A private pilot with 300 hours of flight experience reported in a written statement to the FAA that he entered the traffic pattern for Runway 35. The downwind entry, base leg, and final approach were all normal. Upon crossing the blacktop of the runway, the airplane climbed rapidly 25–30 feet, which the pilot attributed to a thermal effect from high temperatures off the runway surface.
Approach and Landing
A prevailing crosswind from the west drifted the airplane slightly off-center. The pilot applied full power, closed the carburetor heat, and prepared for either a go-around or a soft landing further down the runway. The airplane then lost lift and touched down in a crab due to the crosswind. The touchdown occurred on the nose landing gear, causing the aircraft to skid sideways. The airplane nosed over slightly, resulting in a propeller strike and wing contact with the runway.
Damage
The right wing sustained structural damage. Winds were reported from 270 degrees at 10 knots.