Central Qld hope for Christmas rain

Rain is expected to dampen Christmas Day celebrations in Brisbane, but for drought-stricken Queensland communities a decent downpour would be a festive miracle.

A low-pressure system is likely to form a cyclone in the Gulf of Carpentaria on Boxing Day, with the Bureau of Meteorology modelling showing it should head southeast once it reaches land.

Residents of the state's parched central west are praying it will bring some much-needed rain their way.

Hughenden, with a population of about 1500, has been drought declared since 2013.

"The last serious falls I can remember were three and a half years ago," Flinders Shire Mayor Greg Jones told AAP.

"Showers are forecast for early next week, but we need a lot more than that.

"We're just praying for rain."

The mercury is expected to hit a scorching 37C in Hughenden on Christmas Day.

Mr Jones says many of the region's graziers have been forced to stay on their properties over Christmas to ensure livestock survive.

"They've obviously relying on rain and can't afford to go away and see what's happening anywhere else," he said.

While those in the state's parched centre are crossing their fingers for rain, wet weather is forecast in the southeast corner on Christmas Day.

Brisbane is set for a cooler-than-average top of 27C, with afternoon showers and a storm likely.

Showers are also predicted for the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.

A wet Friday is also on the cards in Cairns, but the falls won't be as heavy as predicted earlier this week.