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COLUMBIA, S.C. (WACH) - The Powerball jackpot is reaching a record high and that has people in the Midlands scrambling to get a piece fo a multi-million dollar payout.

Wednesday's Powerball jackpot is at $320 million, the fourth highest in the history of the game. Ticket sales have spiked in response, particularly at one Columbia location that has had a string of luck in recent months.

The Obama gas statiion on North Main Street in Columbia was clogged with people looking to get their hands on a ticket Wednesday afternoon. The business has been selling winners lately, most recently a $2 million Powerball ticket in April. Everyone lined up for a ticket was hoping they could be next.

"This is the first time buying a ticket from this store. So I hope that means something," said Ernestine Samuel.

"The chances are very slim. But if you don't play you don't stand a chance," said Scott McCormick, who plays the lottery about a once a week.

The chance of winning that fantasy-like jackpot is roughly 1 in 176 million, very long odds, and anyone putting up the dough knows you have to play to get a shot at winning. But, state lottery officials hope people realize there are no guarantees.

"Spend what you have. Don't spend extra. Play responsibly," said Paula Harper Bethea, executive director of the SC Education Lottery. "But it's a game. Have fun with it, but don't 'go overboard with it."

None of the players at the Obama gas station was going overboard, just buying a ticket or tow, and it was the usual wish list for potential winnings. Things like buying a house, giving to charity or the church, and paying off debt. But, all of those things can't happen unless one things comes true.

"It can happen. It can happen and i'm hoping tonight it does," said McCormick.

South Carolina lottery officials say if no one hits the multi-state Powerball drawing Wednesday night, the jackpot could swell to more than $400 million for Saturday's drawing.

If you are lucky enough to win, experts advise you to go seek out a financial planner or an attorney before you ever show up to lottery headquarters with a winning ticket.