I too have had a pc hit whilst using in the storm, luckily it only blew the 56k modem as it was many years ago, the pc was fine. For general house purposes a surge protector is recommended. About a year ago i had at large screen tv go and though nothing of it until a couple of weeks later a newish dyson went from the same source.

Went out and got a surge protector straight away unti it was sorted.