TALLAHASSEE, Florida: The Florida Lottery said this week that the second-largest lottery winner in U.S. history has come forward to claim the US$1.6 billion prize, but the person's identity could remain a secret for the next 90 days.

In a statement, the Florida Lottery said that the Mega Millions jackpot was claimed on September 25, seven weeks after the drawing on August 8.

The lottery went for 31 twice-weekly drawings without a winner.

Florida is one of 45 states to participate in Mega Millions.

Mega Millions said the $1.602 jackpot was the largest in its history, with the previous record being a $1.537 billion prize that was won in South Carolina in 2018.

According to the Mega Millions website, the winner can claim the full amount paid in a 30-year annuity or take a lump sum of $794.2 million in cash. Winnings are taxed.

Under Florida law, lottery winners who claim prizes of $250,000 or more only have to reveal their identities publicly 90 days after they claim the prize.