Columbia, South Carolina, October 22, 2025
News Summary
The Mega Millions jackpot has soared to an impressive $650 million, creating a buzz among players in Columbia. With the next drawing set for tonight, participants must purchase their $5 tickets before the deadline. In recent draws, South Carolina witnessed over $8.5 million awarded in prizes, with numerous winners across the state. Players are reminded of the hefty odds, standing at 1 in 290,472,336, yet the allure of life-changing winnings keeps the excitement alive.
Columbia, South Carolina: Mega Millions Jackpot Climbs to $650 Million as Lottery Drawings Continue
The Mega Millions lottery jackpot has reached a staggering $650 million ahead of the next drawing scheduled for 11 p.m. tonight. Players interested in this life-changing prize must purchase their $5 tickets before 10 p.m. to be eligible for a chance to win. The odds of hitting the Mega Millions jackpot stand at a daunting 1 in 290,472,336.
Following Friday’s drawing, over $8.5 million in total prizes were awarded nationwide, with over 20,000 winners identified across South Carolina. The winning numbers from the last drawing on October 21 consist of 02-18-27-34-59 and a Mega Ball of 18.
South Carolina Lottery Results
In addition to Mega Millions, South Carolina residents also participated in several other lottery games. The results from the Pick 3 and Pick 4 drawings have provided players with multiple winning opportunities:
- Pick 3 Midday: 6-2-5, Fireball: 0
- Pick 3 Evening: 3-3-4, Fireball: 5
- Pick 4 Midday: 5-8-9-0, Fireball: 0
- Pick 4 Evening: 4-4-5-6, Fireball: 5
The Cash Pop results show winning numbers of 13 for the Midday and 14 for the Evening draws. Meanwhile, the Palmetto Cash 5 game produced winning numbers of 04-20-30-35-37.
Claiming Winnings: How to Get Your Prize
For players who have won small amounts, claiming their prize is straightforward. Those with winnings up to $500 can redeem their prizes at any authorized retailer with a signed ticket. For prizes between $501 and $100,000, players must mail their signed ticket, a completed claim form, and a photo ID to the Claims Center. Winners of prizes exceeding $100,000 must visit Lottery Headquarters in Columbia in person to claim their winnings. They will need to provide a signed ticket, claim form, photo ID, and Social Security card. Additionally, players can opt for Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) for direct deposit of larger winnings.
It’s essential for all winners to be mindful of claiming deadlines, as all prizes must be claimed within 180 days from the draw date.
Significant Wins in South Carolina
In recent lottery news, J and S Food Mart in Columbia earned a $10,000 commission for selling a Million Dollar Mania ticket worth $1 million. In another instance, one lucky player altered her routine and won $303,000 in a Palmetto Cash 5 drawing after a clerk’s error provided her with a quick pick ticket.
As the excitement of the Mega Millions continues, players are encouraged to participate, keeping in mind the odds and the thrill of potentially changing their fortunes with a single ticket.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much is the Mega Millions jackpot currently worth?
The Mega Millions jackpot is currently worth $650 million.
What are the odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot?
The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are 1 in 290,472,336.
How can I claim my prize if I win?
For prizes up to $500, you can redeem it at any authorized retailer. For prizes between $501 and $100,000, mail your signed ticket and claim form to the Claims Center. For amounts over $100,000, visit Lottery Headquarters in person.
Lottery Game Summary
| Game | Latest Numbers | Next Drawing | Claim Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mega Millions | 02-18-27-34-59, Mega Ball: 18 | 11 p.m. tonight | 180 days from draw date |
| Pick 3 Midday | 6-2-5 | Next Midday Drawing | 180 days from draw date |
| Pick 3 Evening | 3-3-4 | Next Evening Drawing | 180 days from draw date |
| Pick 4 Midday | 5-8-9-0 | Next Midday Drawing | 180 days from draw date |
| Pick 4 Evening | 4-4-5-6 | Next Evening Drawing | 180 days from draw date |
| Palmetto Cash 5 | 04-20-30-35-37 | Next Drawing | 180 days from draw date |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Columbia Player Wins $1 Million in South Carolina Lottery
Columbia Residents Celebrate Lottery Wins
South Carolina Lottery Draws Winning Numbers
Winning Numbers Announced for Mega Millions Draw
Columbia Player Wins $1 Million in Lottery
Major Lottery Wins Announced in South Carolina
Mega Millions Jackpot Reaches $600 Million
South Carolina Players Win Big in Lottery Scratch-Offs
Major Lottery Wins in South Carolina
South Carolina Lottery Draw Results Announced
Additional Resources
- Greenville Online: South Carolina Lottery Results
- WLTX: Mega Millions Jackpot
- WIS TV: Midlands Winner Takes Home $1 Million
- UPI: South Carolina Education Lottery Clerk Mistake
- Live 5 News: Multiple Winning Lottery Tickets Sold
- Wikipedia: Lottery
- Google Search: South Carolina Lottery
- Google Scholar: Lottery Jackpots
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lottery
- Google News: South Carolina Lottery
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
