Incident Overview
The pilot reported that during an approach to landing in gusty crosswind conditions, the airplane encountered turbulence approximately ten feet above the runway. This caused a sudden loss of altitude, resulting in a hard landing. The impact collapsed the nose landing gear, and the airplane subsequently exited the right side of the runway, collapsing the main landing gear. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage.
Weather Conditions
A review of local weather data indicated low-level wind shear associated with high-based convective activity about five miles north of the airport. Several pilot reports in the area described moderate turbulence below 10,000 feet. Additionally, two pilot reports within an hour of the accident noted moderate turbulence below 2,000 feet and low-level wind shear. The National Weather Service had issued an Airman's Meteorological Advisory for turbulence below 10,000 feet, which was current at the time of the accident.
Damage and Mechanical Status
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.