The Mega Millions jackpot has surged to an impressive $627 million for the upcoming drawing on Friday, August 30, 2024. This new jackpot figure marks the ninth-largest prize in the history of the game. Here’s a detailed look at the current jackpot and a retrospective of the top Mega Millions jackpots ever recorded.
Current Jackpot Overview
The Mega Millions jackpot, initially set at $582 million for the drawing on August 27, 2024, went unclaimed. As a result, the jackpot has increased to an estimated $627 million. The winning numbers for the August 27 drawing were 16-18-21-54-65 with a Mega Ball of 05 and a Megaplier of 2x. Despite the lack of a grand prize winner, there were notable winnings:
- Two Millionaires: Both from South Carolina, they matched the five white balls but missed the Mega Ball. One won $1 million, while the other took home $2 million due to the Megaplier.
- Third-Tier Prizes: 30 tickets matched four white balls plus the Mega Ball, winning $10,000 each, with ten of these tickets worth $20,000 due to the Megaplier.
Historical Perspective: Top 10 Mega Millions Jackpots
The surge in the Mega Millions jackpot this week brings us to reflect on the largest jackpots in the game’s history. Here are the top 10 Mega Millions jackpots:
- $1.602 billion – August 8, 2023, Florida
- $1.537 billion – October 23, 2018, South Carolina
- $1.348 billion – January 13, 2023, Maine
- $1.337 billion – July 29, 2022, Illinois
- $1.128 billion – March 26, 2024, New Jersey
- $1.050 billion – January 22, 2021, Michigan
- $656 million – March 30, 2020, Illinois, Kansas, and Maryland
- $648 million – December 17, 2013, California and Georgia
- $575 million – August 27, 2024
- $552 million – June 4, 2024, Illinois
How to Play Mega Millions
Playing Mega Millions is straightforward. Here’s how you can participate:
- Purchase a Ticket: Buy your ticket from local stores or online in some states.
- Choose Numbers: Pick five white balls (1-70) and one Mega Ball (1-25). Alternatively, opt for a “Quick Pick” for randomly generated numbers.
- Add the Megaplier: For an additional $1, this option multiplies non-grand prize winnings.
Conclusion
The Mega Millions jackpot has reached a thrilling $627 million, adding excitement for players nationwide. With a history of record-breaking jackpots, this game continues to offer life-changing opportunities. If you’re planning to play, remember to check your numbers and stay informed about upcoming draws.
For more information on Mega Millions and to check your past numbers, visit the official Mega Millions website. If you’re also interested in Powerball, you can find details on their official site.