A tropical low heading towards the Queensland coastline could develop into a tropical cyclone by the end of the week.

The weather system is currently south of the Solomon Islands and is expected to move in a westerly direction over the coming days.

It is expected to strenghten as it moves through the Coral Sea on a path towards the far north Queensland coast.

It is expected to cross the Queensland coast later in the week, around Friday.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, there is a high chance of it becoming a cyclone before the end of the week.

However if it does not turn into a cyclone, it could bring rain to the far north Queensland coast.

Once the system crosses the Queensland coast, it is expected to move out into the Gulf of Carpentaria and possibly over towards the Top End.

"People in northern Queensland and near the Gulf of Carpentaria should keep up to date with the latest forecasts," the Bureau of Meteorology said.

NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.