By Sharon Aron Baron
The jackpots for the Powerball and Mega Millions in Florida have risen to over $1.5 billion, causing a frenzy of people hoping to become instant multi-millionaires.
On Friday, the Mega Millions jackpot saw an upward tick, hitting an estimated $640 million ahead of Tuesday night’s drawing. Not far behind, on Saturday, the Powerball jackpot followed suit, with an impressive roll to an estimated $900 million in anticipation of tonight’s draw.
This roller-coaster jackpot journey has not been without its positive impact; the Powerball and Mega Millions rollovers have generated an impressive $78 million for Florida’s Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF).
Lucky jackpot winners can opt to receive their bounty in 30 annual installments or select the one-time, lump-sum cash option. The latter option equates to approximately $465.1 million for the Powerball and $328 million for the Mega Millions.
But it’s not just the jackpot that players have their eyes on; lower-tier prizes can bring winnings of up to $2 million with Powerball and up to $5 million with Mega Millions.
With Powerball jackpots starting at $20 million and rolling until won, players can match the five white ball numbers (1-69) and the Power Ball number (1-26). The odds of scooping a prize in the game stand at approximately 1-in-24.9.
Likewise, Mega Millions jackpots start at $20 million and roll until claimed. Players here aim to match the five white ball numbers (1-70) and the Mega Ball number (1-25). The odds of securing a win? A promising 1-in-24.
Drawings for both Powerball and Mega Millions can be viewed on the Florida Lottery’s website and official YouTube channel. Winning numbers are promptly available on the Lottery’s website, free mobile app, at retailers statewide, and by phone at (850) 921-PLAY.
Ready to try your luck? Tickets can be purchased from more than 13,500 Lottery retailers across the state.
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