The hunt for a life-changing fortune continues as the American Powerball jackpot surges to a colossal $1.4 billion (£1.2 billion), creating a frenzy amongst hopeful players on both sides of the Atlantic.
The prize pool swelled after no ticket managed to match all six numbers in the highly anticipated draw on Saturday night. The winning numbers that eluded players were 47, 54, 57, 60, 65, and the crucial Powerball number 19.
When is the Next Record-Breaking Draw?
All eyes are now on the next drawing, scheduled for Monday night at 10:59 PM ET (Tuesday 3:59 AM UK time). This upcoming draw is poised to offer the third-largest jackpot in the history of the Powerball game and the eighth-largest in US lottery annals.
The winning ticket for this monumental prize can be purchased in 45 US states, as well as in Washington DC, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. While UK residents cannot buy tickets directly, the international buzz is palpable, with many following the story of the ever-growing prize.
How Such Huge Jackpots Are Built
The jaw-dropping size of the current jackpot is a result of a remarkable 35 consecutive draws without a top prize winner. The last time a player hit the jackpot was on July 19th, cementing a long streak of rollovers that have pushed the prize into the stratosphere.
The $1.4 billion prize refers to the winner who chooses an annuity, paid out annually over 29 years. Most winners, however, opt for a lump-sum cash payment, which for the next draw is estimated at a still-astronomical $643.7 million (£531 million).
As the world waits to see if the next draw will create a new billionaire, the question on everyone's mind is: could this be the luckiest ticket ever sold?
