As you can see, there are many things that can be the cause of an idling problem. This section will attempt to narrow it down, but expect some trial-and-error. Skip to the section that applies to you: Engine Idle Is Too Low Or Stalls or Engine Idle Is Too High. They are in a general most-likely-to-occur order.
(MORE: Lightning's Shocking Damage) If you can't find more substantial shelter in a sturdy building, a metal-topped vehicle can keep you safe in the event of a lightning strike. If you are driving, pull to the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights, turn off the engine and wait out the storm. Fold your hands in your lap and avoid touching anything metal within the car. You also should not to touch the radio or talk on a cell phone, especially if it is connected to your vehicle.
The answer is you should not. You can drive the car until it brakes down completely (and it will). While doing so you will, as pointed out by other answers, run the risk of damaging the converter but you also run the risk of fire. If the coil is faulty very bad things can happen. Car fires are usually related to causes associated with fuel, electrical once a fuel part starts leaking while a car is running, a fuel drip can be the formula for fire if you get sparks from a spark plug wire or an ignition coil that is faulty.