The manhole fire happened just before 11 p.m. on Queens Boulevard in Forest Hills.
Con Edison says a defective cable made three manholes smoke, causing a power outage. Crews cut the defective cable.
Three cars were damaged by flying debris.
Users took to social media, saying the fire sounded like a large explosion.
One person who lives on Queens Boulevard says his building shook.
No injuries have been reported and power is back on in the area.