Columbia, South Carolina, October 22, 2025
News Summary
With no jackpot winners in the latest draw, the Mega Millions jackpot has soared to an impressive $650 million. Ticket sales remain robust across South Carolina, where players have also claimed significant prizes in other games. The next drawing is set for later tonight, with players encouraged to purchase their tickets before the cutoff time for a chance at this life-changing prize.
Columbia, South Carolina — October 21, 2025
The South Carolina Education Lottery announced the latest results from the October 21, 2025, lottery draws, including a significant jackpot for Mega Millions and recent winner claims across various games. The state’s residents continue to participate actively in lottery games, with some players claiming substantial prizes.
Mega Millions Jackpot Reaches $650 Million
In the evening drawing on October 21, the Mega Millions winning numbers were 02, 18, 27, 34, 59, with the Mega Ball number being 18. The jackpot has grown to an estimated $650 million, making it one of the largest in recent history.
The next Mega Millions drawing is scheduled for 11 p.m. tonight. Players wishing to participate should purchase their $5 tickets before 10 p.m. to be eligible for the drawing. The odds of winning the jackpot remain extremely low at approximately 1 in 290,472,336.
This recent draw across the country awarded over $8.5 million in prizes, with no reported jackpot winners yet, underscoring the challenging odds of hitting the big prize, but highlighting substantial cash awards in smaller categories.
Recent Lottery Results in South Carolina
Pick 3 and Pick 4 Results
- 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
Cash Pop Results
- Midday: 13
- Evening: 14
Palmetto Cash 5 Winning Numbers
The latest Palmetto Cash 5 drawing resulted in winning numbers 04, 20, 30, 35, 37.
Prize Claiming Procedures and Deadlines
Players claiming prizes up to $500 can redeem their winnings at any authorized retailer by signing their ticket. For prizes ranging from $501 to $100,000, winners are required to mail a signed ticket, completed claim form, and a government-issued photo ID to the Lottery’s Claims Center. Those with winnings exceeding $100,000 must claim in person at the Lottery headquarters in Columbia.
Winners of large prizes need to bring additional documentation, including their Social Security card, and have the option of receiving their funds via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) for direct deposit. All prize claims must be submitted within 180 days from the date of the drawing.
Recent Notable Wins and Retailer Incentives
A Columbia-based convenience store, J and S Food Mart, received a $10,000 commission for selling a $1 million winning ticket from the Million Dollar Mania game. This highlights the critical role retailers play in the lottery’s operations and the benefits of participating in the lottery sales network.
In an unusual turn of events, a Palmetto Cash 5 player won $303,000 after a clerk’s error provided her with a quick pick ticket, demonstrating how random chance and minor errors can sometimes lead to significant wins.
Summary
The South Carolina Education Lottery continues to see active participation, with record jackpots and numerous winners across various games. Remaining tickets must be bought before the upcoming draw times, and prize claim procedures are clearly outlined. With the Mega Millions jackpot climbing to $650 million, local players are encouraged to participate in tonight’s drawing for a chance at this life-changing prize.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Columbia Player Wins $1 Million in Lottery Drawing
Major Lottery Wins Announced in South Carolina
South Carolina Lottery Draw Results Announced
Lottery Draw Results Announced with Mega Millions Update
Columbia Player Wins $1 Million in Lottery
South Carolina Education Lottery Announces Latest Winners
Mega Millions Jackpot Reaches $600 Million
Woodruff Resident Claims $2.5 Million Lottery Prize
South Carolina Powerball Winner Claims $100,000 Prize
Gas Prices in Florence, SC See Slight Decrease Amid Hurricane Season
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 FLORENCE WRITER
The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence 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 Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
