The Powerball jackpot has soared to a staggering $1.7 billion after Wednesday’s drawing saw no winners matching all six numbers. This enormous sum positions it as the third largest in the history of both the Powerball game and U.S. lotteries in general, as reported by the Multi-State Lottery Association.
The winning numbers drawn were 3, 16, 29, 61, 69, and red Powerball 22, with a Power Play multiplier of 2. The anticipation builds as the next drawing is scheduled for Saturday night. This latest jackpot comes on the heels of two megawins: a $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot in 2022 and a $1.765 billion prize earlier this year, both of which were claimed in California.
Additionally, Powerball has reached a significant milestone, currently experiencing its longest streak without a jackpot winner. Saturday’s drawing will mark the 42nd consecutive game since the last jackpot was won on May 31 in California. The previous record streak of 42 drawings without a winner concluded in April 2022 with a $1.3 billion win in Oregon.
The colossal $1.7 billion figure represents the total for winners opting to receive their prize in 30 annual installments, commencing with one immediate payout. Alternatively, winners can choose a lump-sum cash option estimated at $770 million, both of which are before taxes.
Despite the eye-popping jackpot figures, the odds of winning remain unchanged at approximately 1 in 292.2 million. These odds stem from the number of balls used in the drawing and have been affected by adjustments to the game over time. Interestingly, as more tickets are sold, the likelihood of a tie—where two or more individuals select the same winning numbers—increases.
Powerball tickets are priced at $2 each and are available for purchase in 45 states, along with the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. As players across the nation gear up for Saturday’s drawing, excitement continues to build over the possibility of a life-changing jackpot.
