Powerball fever over $500-million jackpot

TAMPA (FOX 13) - Powerball fever is sweeping across the Tampa Bay area ahead of Wednesday night's $500 million jackpot, the fourth largest jackpot in Powerball history.

The drawing has eager people lining up to buy their tickets at the Marathon gas station on Kennedy Boulevard in South Tampa.

"We sold $700 worth of tickets in three hours last night," said store manager Khalid Srur.

Even though the odds are slim, with the chances of winning only at one in 292 million, people like Zack Garza are still buying their tickets and dreaming of what they'd do with the $500 million prize.

"Probably take care of my family, buy a house- buy a couple houses -but definitely not work," said Zack.

Winners have the option of choosing the lump sum payment of $306.4 million before taxes, or the 30 year annuity of $337.5 million.

You have until 10 p.m. to buy tickets.

The winning numbers will be announced at 11 p.m.