31 MarSevere weather at Sun ‘n Fun leaves aviation damages
*Update*
AOPA is reporting that the Sun ‘n Fun aviation expo is shut down for the day after a day of storms and damage. You can read that story HERE. The expo is expected to reopen tomorrow.
Heavy storms moved through the Lakeland, Fla. area earlier this morning bringing with them powerful winds, rains, and a tornado. All FreeFlight Systems representatives at the show are accounted for and are safe and uninjured.
According to local and national news reports, the storms led to damage on the Sun ‘n Fun grounds at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in Lakeland, Fla. The storm also caused at least 30 planes to flip or sustain damages, as well as other minor damages to property.
Initial reports claimed a hanger had collapsed, leaving 70 people trapped inside. Reports are coming in now from Sun ‘n Fun radio- reporting from the ground- that there has been no building collapse. No serious injuries are being reported. You can follow Sun ‘n Fun radio for the latest information either at 1510 AM on the radio in the Lakeland area, or via the Internet. CNN has since update its report to reflect this correction and other news outlets are following.
Jamie Luster, FreeFlight Systems Director of Sales and Marketing, texted from the grounds,”There are tons of aircraft overturned and other tents that are down.”
Luster and other representatives from FFS have taken shelter in a hangar. They have made plans, she says, to stay safe if another tornado comes through the area.
Weather reports continue to come in, saying the area is in for another storm,although likely not as severe as the first.
Get the very latest news on the situation at Sun ‘n Fun by following us on Twitter at @FreeFlightSys. You can also follow the hashtag #SNF11. We’re working to bring you updates on the situation as they become available.
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