With significant amounts of snowfall expected today, Roanoke Rapids police are encouraging people to stay off the roadways unless absolutely necessary.

“Once the snow becomes packed, it becomes slick,” Captain Andy Jackson said.

Jackson also noted the use of four-wheelers on city streets is prohibited as well as on the Canal Trail and sidewalks. “If police encounter a four-wheeler and identify the driver, they will be appropriately charged.”

Charges can vary depending on the situation, from driving an unlicensed vehicle to failing to carry liability insurance. “We've had accidents that resulted in critical injuries.”

The latest models, Jackson said, show the area instead of three to five inches of snow, could get six to 10.