A perfect evening is forecast for Thursday night's season opener, but Gold Coast and North Melbourne could encounter thunderstorms at Cazalys Stadium on Saturday night.

Richmond is set to unfurl its premiership flag under a clear sky at the MCG, with the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting a mostly sunny day and a top of 26 degrees on Thursday. 

A shower or two is forecast every day in Cairns this week before the Suns host the Kangaroos, with more showers expected and a possible thunderstorm on Saturday. 

Hot conditions are expected in Adelaide for Sunday's clash between Port Adelaide and Fremantle, with a forecast maximum of 33 degrees. The clash starts at 4.05pm.