BREAKING: Major 7.3 magnitude earthquake outside Peru sparks tsunami fears

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre said tsunami waves are possible within 300 km of the epicenter along the coast of Peru.

National Weather Service officials also claimed there is a tsunami risk, around 186 miles from the centre.

Peru is located in the Ring of Fire, an area in the Pacific Ocean prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Peru has become a tourist and backpacker hotspot, especially for Britons hoping to see ancient Incan city Machu Picchu and part of the Amazon rainforest.

The infamous area is made up of volcanoes, ocean trenches, mountain trenches and hydrothermal vents. It is known for being a hive for volcanic eruptions. 

Pope Francis is due to visit the country in the coming days.

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