Boxing Day shopping might not be as simple this year as in previous years.

That's because Environment Canada has issued a weather alert warning of "moderate to heavy snowfall for inland sections of Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland".

It will begin overnight and continue on Monday and possibly even on Monday night. 

This will affect travel over land and sea.

"A deep trough over the Pacific will approach the North Coast of British Columbia Sunday night then progress southeast on Monday," Environment Canada stated. "Ahead of this system, strong southerly winds will develop during the day on Monday. Winds will be strongest near the Strait of Georgia."

The alert stated that the snow will eventually be replaced by rain.

The City of Vancouver has stated that its "crews will be working throughout the night with salters and plows to prepare, with the potential to add more staff and equipment if needed".

In addition, the city is allowing free disposal of household trash at its Vancouver South Transfer Station from Monday (December 26) until Saturday (December 31).

This has been extended from the original period ending on Tuesday (December 27). Only Vancouver residents with valid identification will be allowed to dump their garbage for free.

Meanwhile, three warming centres will be open this evening after 9 p.m. for homeless residents: 

* Creekside Community Centre;

* West End Community Centre;

* The Hall at 1739 Venables Street (affiliated with Britannia Community Centre).