In the diagram, the runoff flows into a storm drain, which is a pipe or conduit designed to collect and transport stormwater, meltwater, and other surface water from roofs, paved areas, and other impervious surfaces. The storm drain then directs the runoff to a nearby body of water, such as a river, lake, or ocean.

In some cases, storm drains can also lead to a retention or detention basin, which are man-made structures designed to hold excess water during and after heavy rainfall events. Retention and detention basins help to reduce flooding and can also improve the quality of the water before it is released into a natural water body.