Powerball jackpot reaches $1 billion

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. — Wednesday night’s Powerball jackpot has reached $1 billion and South Floridians are rushing to buy tickets.

Read more 4 Republicans running in primary for Florida’s U.S. Senate seat

It’s the biggest jackpot so far this year. It comes after the United Kingdom joined most U.S. states in offering the game, adding the to the jackpot pool.

Of course, the $1 billion figure represents a pre-tax sum of annuity payments.

Those opting to take a lump sum cash payout would come away with $433 million before taxes and almost $273 million afterward, according to lottery website USA Mega.

Read more Videos show ‘slim’ burglar who admits to crawling into office twice in Pembroke Park

No matter how you slice it, it’s an eye-popping number.

Watch the video above to see how customers at a Hollywood gas station say they’d spend the big haul.

Read more ‘That legacy of Fidel is gone,’ analyst says, as Cuba prepares to mark 100th birthday of late leader