Circumstances
A Federal Aviation Administration flight service station (FSS) specialist advised the pilot to remain clear of the destination airport until a special visual flight rules clearance could be issued. Instrument meteorological conditions prevailed at the airport, with a strong southeasterly wind. Approximately eight minutes after initial contact, the FSS specialist attempted to contact the pilot to issue the clearance but received no response.
Witness Account
A witness located about half a mile southeast of the accident site reported seeing the airplane flying very low over the treetops. The witness described the weather as low clouds, rain, and gusty southeasterly wind estimated at 30 to 40 knots. As the airplane passed overhead, it turned sharply to the left. The witness observed violent side-to-side wing rocking and nose pitching up and down. While flying low over hilly, tree-covered terrain, the airplane rolled to the right; the right wing struck a large tree and separated. The airplane then descended behind a stand of trees.
Meteorological Conditions
Other pilots in the area reported strong wind with significant downdrafts and turbulence.
Aircraft Examination
A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions.
Analysis of Events
Given the lack of mechanical deficiencies, the reports of turbulence and downdrafts, and the witness account of the airplane’s physical movements, it is likely that the pilot encountered significant terrain-induced turbulence and downdrafts while flying at low altitude. The area surrounding the accident site and portions of the pilot's earlier flight path were bordered by large areas of open and protected water, several of which were suitable for landing the float-equipped airplane.