The excitement surrounding the Powerball lottery reached new heights as the jackpot has escalated to an impressive $120 million for the upcoming drawing slated for Saturday. This recent surge in prize money follows a series of drawings without a jackpot winner, with the most recent drawing on Wednesday yielding no big winners.
The jackpot has been gradually accumulating since May 6, when a Florida resident clinched an astounding $215 million in a separate Powerball drawing. Should someone strike it rich in the next drawing, they would secure a substantial lump-sum payment of $56.4 million after taxes, a life-changing sum by any measure.
The anticipated numbers for the Wednesday, May 22 Powerball drawing were disclosed shortly after 11 p.m. ET, and the results are now public. Here are the essential details surrounding the recent Powerball drawing:
The winning numbers drawn for Wednesday night were 5, 16, 18, 26, and 67, with the red Powerball numbered at 4. Additionally, the Power Play multiplier was 3X, which increases the winnings for non-jackpot prizes when players opt for this feature by paying an additional $1.
Despite the absence of a jackpot winner or a Match 5 + Power Play $2 million winner Wednesday night, there was still a notable success story. A Match 5 $1 million winner emerged in California, proving that significant prizes can be won even without hitting the jackpot.
For those interested in exploring past Powerball winners, a comprehensive list can be found on the official lottery website. This resource provides insights into previous draws and the fortunate individuals who have secured life-altering prizes.
To participate in the Powerball, individuals need to purchase a $2 ticket. These tickets can be acquired at local convenience stores, gas stations, grocery stores, and, in several states, online. Players must select a total of six numbers. These include five white-ball numbers ranging between 1 and 69 and one red Powerball number ranging from 1 to 26.
For individuals aiming to improve their chances of winning, there’s an option to add a “Power Play” for an extra $1. This feature multiplies the winnings for all non-jackpot prizes by 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X, or even 10X, significantly enhancing the potential payoff.
Players also have the option to request a “Quick Pick” at the point of purchase.
. This method involves the cashier providing a ticket with numbers randomly generated by a computer, a convenient option for those who prefer not to pick their own numbers.
Powerball drawings are held thrice weekly, specifically on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday evenings. If no participant wins the jackpot, the prize money increases by millions, adding to the lottery’s allure and the anticipation of the following draw.
Tickets can be bought in various locations such as gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores. Some airports may also offer lottery ticket sales, providing travelers with an opportunity to join the excitement.
For tech-savvy participants, the Jackpocket app stands as an efficient alternative to traditional in-person purchases. Available in numerous states and territories including Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington D.C., and West Virginia, the app offers a seamless experience. Users can select their lottery game, pick their numbers, place their order, view their ticket, and collect their winnings, all from their mobile device or home computer.
The Jackpocket platform represents the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. It is worth noting that Gannett, the parent company of USA TODAY, may earn revenue from audience referrals to Jackpocket services. Users should also be aware of the specific age requirements: 18+ in most states, 21+ in Arizona, and 19+ in Nebraska. It’s important to remember that the service is not affiliated with any State Lottery.
For those grappling with gambling-related issues, several resources are available. Individuals in New York can call 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369). Other states provide their own helplines: 1-800-327-5050 in Massachusetts, 1-877-MYLIMIT in Oregon, 1-800-981-0023 in Puerto Rico, and 1-800-GAMBLER for all other regions. Full terms and conditions can be found by visiting jackpocket.com/tos.
As anticipation builds for Saturday’s drawing, hopeful participants across the nation are eagerly purchasing their tickets, dreaming of the moment when their numbers are called and their lives are forever changed. With $120 million on the line, the possibilities are as vast as the excitement surrounding this ever-growing jackpot.
