The Mega Millions jackpot just increased again today to $940 million for tonight drawing, the fifth largest in Mega Millions history and eighth largest in U.S. history.

A winner could claim the prize as a $940 million annuity or $472.5 million in cash.

“Jackpots this large always bring a lot of fun and excitement,” said Mark Michalko, executive director of the N.C. Education Lottery. “Tonight’s jackpot is no exception with more than $900 million up for grabs. It would be great to see that big win here in North Carolina.”

There have now been 28 straight drawings since the last Mega Millions jackpot win on April 18 in New York. The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are 1 in 302 million. A week ago, two tickets sold in North Carolina won $1 million prizes in the drawing.

Players can buy Mega Millions tickets at any lottery retail location or through Online Play on the lottery’s website, www.nclottery.com.

Ticket sales from draw games make it possible for the lottery to raise more than $2.5 million a day on average for education. For details on how lottery funds have made a difference in all of North Carolina’s 100 counties, click on the “Impact” section of the lottery’s website.