Queensland weather: No end in sight for Brisbane heatwave

Queenslanders are impatiently waiting for a forecast cool change after the sweltering conditions across the state today.

Temperatures hit 45.7 degrees in Windorah, west of Brisbane, earlier today.

Brisbane hit 38C by midday, but cloud cover and scattered thunderstorms eased the heat in the afternoon.

In Mount Isa, the mercury was still at 45C at 4pm.

The heatwave kept electricity usage high across the state.

But temperatures are expected to stay high on Saturday, with rain and thunderstorms predicted in Brisbane in spite of the heat.

But it will cool down on Sunday, making for a more pleasant Christmas.

Queensland health authorities have also urged people to take care in the intense heat to minimise their risk of injury.

"The people at the most risk are our elderly and people who already have chronic diseases and young babies as well," Tony Hucker from the Queensland Ambulance Service said.

"If you've got elderly neighbours, make sure you knock on the door, go and make sure they're okay.

"The rules are simple, plan your day, make sure you've got plenty of water and stay well hydrated... Get into air conditioning if you can, keep all the windows and doors open, make use of the breezes, wear loose-fitting clothing.

"The important thing is to minimise any activity through the hottest part of the day and make sure you've got water with you."