Columbia, South Carolina, September 8, 2025

News Summary

As the Powerball jackpot surges to $1.8 billion, it marks the second-largest in U.S. history. With 41 consecutive drawings without a winner, excitement among players builds. South Carolina sees smaller wins, with 118,000 players cashing in on prizes ranging from $4 to $50,000. Buying lottery tickets has become easier with new debit card options, reinforcing the game’s community impact.

Columbia, South Carolina — Powerball Jackpot Reaches $1.8 Billion, Breaking Records

The Increasing Jackpot and Its Significance

The Powerball lottery jackpot in the United States has surged to an estimated $1.8 billion ahead of the drawing scheduled for September 6. This amount marks the second-largest jackpot in U.S. lottery history, reflecting a significant escalation in the ongoing jackpot run. The current jackpot has now gone 41 consecutive drawings without a winner, setting a record for the most consecutive draws without awarding the grand prize. The last time the jackpot was claimed was on May 31, making the current streak the longest in Powerball history.

Details of the Jackpot and Payouted Amounts

For players considering participation, the estimated cash payout if someone hits the jackpot is approximately $826.4 million. This figure represents the lump sum payment, which players can opt for instead of the annuity option that distributes payments over many years. Tickets for the Powerball draw cost $2 each and must be purchased before the cut-off time of 9:59 p.m. on the day of the draw.

Recent Wins and Notable South Carolina Results

While no one has won the grand prize recently, South Carolina residents have experienced smaller victories. On the September 3 drawing, over 118,000 players in South Carolina secured cash prizes ranging from $4 to $50,000. Among these, three players in South Carolina matched some of the main numbers and each won the maximum smaller prize of $50,000.

• A ticket purchased at Publix Super Market on Gold Hill Road in Fort Mill
• A ticket bought at A Plus on Red Bank Road in Goose Creek
• A ticket with Double Play option purchased at Circle K on South Church Street in Greenville

Buying Power and Retailer Promotions in South Carolina

Thanks to recent legislative changes, debit cards are now accepted at retail outlets across South Carolina for lottery transactions. This change aims to make the purchasing process more accessible for players. Additionally, stores that sell tickets receive commissions of approximately $2 billion annually as part of the lottery’s financial model.

How to Play and Odds

To win the Powerball jackpot, players must match all five white ball numbers plus the red Powerball. The odds of winning the jackpot are approximately 1 in 293 million, illustrating the high difficulty of hitting the big prize. Despite the slim chances, the allure of potentially winning billions continues to attract thousands of players each week.

Lottery Impact in South Carolina

Since its inception 23 years ago, the South Carolina Education Lottery has awarded over $22 billion in prizes to players. A portion of this revenue directly supports education-related initiatives. Last year, approximately 140,000 students benefited from lottery-funded scholarships, emphasizing the lottery’s role in supporting local community development.

Responsible Play and Financial Advice

Officials encouraging responsible gambling remind players to check their tickets diligently. They also caution players that winning can bring unforeseen financial and personal challenges. Financial experts advise lottery winners to prepare for multiple requests for money and to be cautious about sharing their wealth with others, emphasizing the importance of prudent financial management.

Community Sentiment

Many residents express excitement and hope about the record-breaking jackpot. Some see it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, with a notable local resident mentioning her willingness to take a “chance of a lifetime.”

Conclusion

The ongoing Powerball jackpot has captured national and local attention, with the anticipation building as the September 6 drawing approaches. While the odds remain slim, the potential for a transformative payout continues to inspire hope among players across South Carolina and the entire country.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Record Powerball Jackpot Drawn, South Carolina Lottery Results Released
Three Winners Share $100,000 in Powerball Lottery
South Carolina Residents Win $50,000 Each Ahead of Powerball Jackpot
Three Arrested in Dorchester County for Lottery Fraud
South Carolina Powerball Player Wins $150,000 Prize
Columbia-Area Ticket Wins $100,000 Prize in Powerball!
Powerball Winner in Gaffney, South Carolina
Mauldin Celebrates New Lottery Champion with $50,000 Win!
Timmonsville Resident Close to Winning Nearly $500 Million Powerball Jackpot
Irmo Resident Wins $50,000 in Powerball Near Miss

Additional Resources

• WLTX: South Carolina Powerball Players Win $50K Jackpot
• WYFF: Excitement for South Carolina Powerball Jackpot Grows
• Count On 2: Powerball Jackpot Jumps to $1.8 Billion
• Wikipedia: Powerball
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Lottery

Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD

The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.