The HI-STORM UMAX lid is designed to direct storm water and, in northern climates, snow/ice melt-off away from the lid where the air passages are located. The concrete pad is sloped to direct water away from the lid. Moreover, any minor amount of moisture that may intrude into the storage cavity due to wind-driven rain will evaporate in a short period of time due to the continuous movement of heated air in the storage cavity. Also, all inlets and outlets are equipped with screens that prevent any significant debris from entering the vaults.