March 31, 2011  Bad Weather at Sun n Fun

     At approximately noon on Thursday, March 31, a really strong squall line passed through the Sun n Fun grounds.  The sky became as black as night, and we were hit with strong winds and rain.  I was heading for the campgrounds when it hit, and was able to take shelter in Hangar E.  When it was over,  there was major damage to trees, tents, and anything not securely fastened down.  At the Short Wing Piper Club Building, a large tree by the front door was blown over damaging the President's auto.  Power was knocked out by the downed trees.  Trees also fell at the Women's pavilion, the Corn Roast area,  and at many other locations.   The seating area at the Corn Roast area was collapsed onto the tables.  In the General Aircraft Camping Area, a Cessna 172 broke from its tie downs and flipped onto a Bonanza.  Several other planes broke loose and weathervaned damaging tail fathers, and wingtips.  Control surfaces and linkage were also reported damaged.