Incident Overview
A pilot diverted to an alternate airport after encountering thunderstorms en route to the intended destination. The landing was completed without incident. While taxiing to the tiedown area, a sudden increase in wind lifted the airplane's tail, causing it to nose over and come to rest inverted. The wings and empennage sustained substantial damage.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The decision to land at the accident airport was based on the presence of thunderstorms between the aircraft and its original destination.
Weather Conditions
Weather reported at an airport located six miles east of the accident site included thunderstorm activity. Winds were from 240 degrees at 14 knots with gusts to 19 knots. The peak wind recorded at that location was 52 knots.
Damage Assessment
The aircraft came to rest inverted, resulting in substantial damage to the wings and empennage. No other damage was reported.