WA national park closed due to flooding

Cape Range National Park in the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area of Western Australia has been closed after heavy rainfall caused flooding, forcing campers to move to higher ground.

The Department of Parks and Wildlife said the park would remain closed until further notice after flooding over the weekend that was associated with ex-tropical cyclone Jack.

Exmouth district manager Arvid Hogstrom said at least 250mm of rain was recorded within a 24 hour period, causing extensive damage to roads, campgrounds, recreational sites, park infrastructure and the Milyering Discovery Centre.

"This was a very rare and unexpected event," he said.

The nearby town of Exmouth was also flooded over the weekend.

The local State Emergency Service rescued stranded people and sandbagged properties.