It’s Western Australia’s turn to feel the heat, with Perth headed for a top of 35 degrees Celsius and blue skies on Thursday, tipped to last into next week, according to Bureau of Meteorology forecasts.

Melbourne is forecast for a modest maximum of 21C throughout the day, while Sydney is forecast for a cloudy top of 26C.

Both cities are forecast to avoid getting wet after rain disrupted play on day three of the boxing day test at the MCG.

Brisbane can expect a shower or two along with a top of 27C, while Hobart will stay mostly dry with a top of 20C.

Canberra and Darwin are being warned of possible storms, with the capital expecting a maximum of 26C compared to 31C in the Top End.

Temperatures are expected to lift again over the New Year’s weekend although an unwelcome shower or two may also feature.

On Saturday, Sydney is due to be cloudy with a 70 per cent chance of rain while Melbourne is tipped to be humid but mostly dry.

Brisbane could also see a shower on the last day of the year, while Adelaide is set to heat up again with the mercury ranging above 30C and sunny.

-with AAP