If you’re waiting to find out if you have a jackpot-winning Powerball ticket, you’re going to have to wait a little longer.
Officials with the Multi-State Lottery Association, the organization behind the game, said that Monday’s drawing, with a record $1.9 billion jackpot, is delayed because of a security issue. The drawing was originally set for 10:59 p.m. EST.
“Tonight’s Powerball drawing has been delayed due to a participating lottery needing extra time to complete the required security protocols. Powerball has strict security requirements that must be met by all 48 lotteries before a drawing can occur,” officials said in a statement. “When the required security protocols are complete, the drawing will be performed under the supervision of lottery security officials and independent auditors.”
There are 45 states that participate in Powerball, plus Washington, D.C., the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.
This isn’t the first time that there’s been a delay with Powerball results. On Oct. 19, there was an hour-long delay because of a similar issue.
Officials said the winning numbers and recorded video of the drawing will eventually be posted to the Powerball website and YouTube channel. They didn’t provide details regarding when the drawing will finally take place.
“We apologize for the delay,” officials added.
As might be expected, Powerball players had plenty to say about the situation, given the fervor that had surrounded the drawing.
“Lol we broke Powerball,” one person tweeted.
Others thought there was something odd about the delay, given that it coincided with the blood-moon eclipse. To say nothing of the midterm elections.
