POWERBALL Jackpot Soars to $250 MILLION!

Washington, D.C. - The POWERBALL Jackpot is $250 million, and the dream of becoming a multi-millionaire is again up for grabs, fueling the inspiration that "it could happen to you."

With the tenth largest POWERBALL jackpot hanging in the balance for tonight's drawing, many Washingtonians will purchase their POWERBALL tickets hoping lightning will strike twice. In April 2009, the $144M POWERBALL jackpot-the largest jackpot awarded in D.C.-was claimed by an anonymous grandfather from Southeast, D.C., who bought a single ticket.

To date, there have been 14 consecutive draws without a winner. This jackpot run began on July 1, 2009 and the estimated $250M jackpot is the largest since March 15, 2008. Anticipation surrounding the ever-increasing jackpot has energized players and sales. The Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL), which administers the game in 30 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, reports total sales from participating jurisdictions at $409,204,798.

"We're excited about the jackpot and the hope of having another top prize POWERBALL winner in Washington, D.C.," states Jay Young, executive director of the D.C. Lottery and Charitable Games Control Board. "Players are reminded to play responsibly, to check their tickets for the multiple prizes available with POWERBALL game, and to immediately sign the back of their tickets."

$356 million, the largest POWERBALL jackpot ever, was claimed in 2006 in Lincoln, NE by an office pool. By 11 p.m. tonight, we'll know if we're celebrating a lucky winner or adding more zero's to the jackpot amount.

More information about D.C. Lottery winners, games, and retailers is available at dclottery.com and Facebook. Lots of People Win with the D.C. Lottery.