Queenslanders will welcome 2019 with spectacular fireworks and light shows across the southeast while in the far north revellers could be dancing in the rain with a possible cyclone developing.

More than 85,000 people are expected in Brisbane's South Bank precinct to see the city skyline light up with fireworks from five barges between the Victoria and Goodwill bridges, played to a soundtrack of 2018's most popular hits.

Across South Bank, Eagle Street Pier, Portside Wharf and Howard Smith Wharves, more than seven tonnes of fireworks will be synced and coordinated.

Family-friendly fireworks are scheduled for 8.30pm before the main event at midnight.

Items such as alcohol, bikes, scooters, pets, skateboards, metal picnic cutlery and unsealed water bottles are not allowed.

Revellers on the Gold Coast will enjoy fireworks along the length of the coast with the biggest displays at Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise at 8pm and midnight.

On the Sunshine Coast, The Esplanade at Mooloolaba, will have entertainment from 4pm and fireworks shows at 8.30pm and midnight.

RSPCA Qld is once again warning pet owners to take special precautions to ensure their pets are safe, with firework displays creating havoc amongst the animal population, with frightened pets sometimes found kilometres from home.

"It's likely that scores of animals will end up at our shelters or council pounds," said RSPCA Qld spokesman Michael Beatty.

Revellers can expect warmer conditions heading into New Year's Eve with highs in the mid-to-high 30s and lows in the 20s.

Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Gordon Banks said the Gold and Sunshine coasts would enjoy afternoon sea breezes, but farther west Gatton, Toowoomba and Warwick will swelter with temperatures around 38C forecast.

Brisbane is expecting a maximum of 32C.

In Cairns, rain damage earlier this week and expected rain over the next three days have forced the cancellation of a family concert, children's activities and a fun run.

The council is investigating the possibility of a scaled-down, indoor event, weather permitting.