BERKELEY -- An explosion in an underground vault in downtown Berkeley about 2:30 p.m. Monday sent a manhole cover into the air, injured one person and caused a minor power outage in the area, according to Berkeley Deputy Fire Chief David Orth.

The explosion occurred on Bancroft Way near Telegraph Avenue, Orth said.

When the manhole cover came down, it collided with a Mercedes Benz 190 and the car's air bag deployed, striking the driver in the upper body and causing minor injuries, according to Orth.

The explosion also caused a small fire but it was quickly contained, he said.

Pacific Gas and Electric Co. officials weren't immediately available for comment on the extent of the power outage caused by the explosion. Orth said he believes only a small area is without power.

No other injuries were reported.