WAYNE COUNTY, NC — North Carolina lottery players will have the opportunity to compete for a massive $700 million Powerball jackpot today, marking the largest prize offered in more than a year.
The record-setting jackpot gives winners the choice between a $700 million annuity paid over 30 years or an immediate lump sum payment of $316 million in cash.
“A chance to win a jackpot worth $700 million does not come around every day,” said Mark Michalko, chief executive officer of the North Carolina Education Lottery. “We would love to see a lucky North Carolinian win the big prize today. Good luck.”
This weekend’s drawing represents the largest Powerball jackpot since April 6, 2024, when an Oregon resident claimed a staggering $1.3 billion prize.
Strong North Carolina Participation
Wednesday’s Powerball drawing demonstrated significant participation from North Carolina players, with 42,452 winning tickets sold throughout the state. The current Powerball run has generated an estimated $12.6 million in funding for North Carolina’s education programs.
North Carolina lottery enthusiasts also have another major opportunity this week, with Friday’s Mega Millions jackpot reaching $234 million in annuity payments or $105.1 million in cash.
How to Play
Powerball tickets are available for purchase at any authorized lottery retail location across North Carolina. Players can also participate through the lottery’s online platform at www.nclottery.com or via the NC Lottery Official Mobile App.
The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot remain at 1 in 292 million, regardless of the prize amount.
Educational Impact
The North Carolina Education Lottery continues to support educational initiatives across all 100 counties in the state. Detailed information about how lottery proceeds benefit local communities is available in the “Impact” section of the lottery’s official website.
Today’s drawing will be closely watched by lottery players nationwide as the jackpot represents one of the largest prizes offered by any U.S. lottery in recent months.
