I made a rookie move... Always tip your awning at night!

When we went to do the PDI on our trailer, there was a sign on the wall showing pictures of several different campers with severely wind damaged awnings warning not to leave the awning out when you're not there or asleep. Ours is old school manual, without auto dumping or retraction, so we heed the advice.

Sorry to hear about your experience, but thanks for sharing for the benefit of your fellow campers!