The $1.3 billion Powerball jackpot draw was delayed because of ticket verification problems

Saturday’s highly anticipated $1.3 billion Powerball jackpot drawing has been delayed as the Multi-State Lottery Association says the drawing needs more time to complete security procedures .

The drawing was originally scheduled for 10:59 pm ET.

According to a press release, Powerball rules require every ticket sold nationwide to be checked and verified on two different computer systems before drawing.

“This is done to ensure that every ticket sold for the Powerball drawing has been calculated and has an equal chance of winning,” the release said. “Tonight, we have a jurisdiction that needs additional time to complete the previous lottery process.”

Customers are asked to keep their tickets. Once the pre-draw procedure is completed, the draw will be conducted under the supervision of “lottery security officials and independent auditors.”

There is no indication when the next drawing will take place, although Powerball drawings are scheduled three times a week: Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.

The estimated $1.3 billion jackpot will be the fourth largest in Powerball history.