Incident Overview
A pilot reported that while conducting flight maneuvers, inclement weather was encountered. The pilot elected to divert to a nearby airport, where high winds, gusting winds, and rain showers were present in the landing pattern.
Approach and Go-Around
During the first approach, the pilot was unable to land due to a gusting crosswind and initiated a go-around. After reattempting a landing approach, the pilot could not align the aircraft because of the winds and attempted a second go-around.
Loss of Control and Impact
While executing the second go-around, gusting wind caused the pilot to lose control of the airplane, which subsequently impacted the ground. During the accident sequence, the airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and firewall.
Weather Conditions
Winds in the vicinity were reported at 15 knots with gusts of 28 knots. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions that would have precluded normal operations.