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Tidal Wave Dream: 32 Scenarios And Their Meanings

Tidal Wave Dream: 32 Scenarios And Their Meanings

Updated on Jan 17, 2023 | Published on May 21, 2022

Reviewed by Dr. Nereida Gonzalez-Berrios, MD , Certified Psychiatrist

Dreams of Tidal Wave - 32 Dream Scenarios & Their Meanings

Key Takeaways


  • Most likely, a tidal wave dream is a sign that something great is on the horizon.
  • The scenario can also be your subconscious urging you to release your repressed emotions and feelings.
  • For some, the dream stands for self-discovery and independence.
  • Tidal wave dreams are also common occurrences during times when your emotions and mental peace are in turmoil.
  • Negatively, the wave symbolizes problems and unpleasant situations that are about to come crashing down.

A tidal wave dream will most likely leave you skeptical or even scared of what may happen in the upcoming days or weeks. Taking into account, the nature of the wave, in reality, it’s normal to harbor such types of negativities following such a dream. 

If it brings a negative message, it is your subconscious warning you to be cautious and to prepare yourself. The same goes for positive messages as well. 

If you are looking for answers to a dream associated with a tidal wave, this article will help you clarify your dream – what it means, why it happened in the first place, and the next steps your subconscious wants you to take. 

Tidal Wave Dream - 32 Dream Scenarios & Their Meanings
Tidal Wave Dream – 32 Dream Scenarios & Their Meanings

What Does A Tidal Wave Dream Symbolize?

SUMMARY
To sum up, a tidal wave dream portends problems leading to a major turn of events – making you feel anxious, overwhelmed, and thereby disrupting your life balance. Also, they can be a sign from your higher self to release the emotions and feelings you have been holding on to. 

In a broad sense, a tidal wave in the dream world has a negative connotation. Almost always, they are related to obstacles on your path, causing disruption and wreaking havoc on your life – emotionally, mentally, and financially. 

Since water is closely connected to emotions in the realm of dreams, your dream can also be symbolic of a need to release repressed feelings. Alternatively, it can mean your emotions are all over the place. 

From the relationship point of view, a tidal wave shows how deeply intertwined you are in a relationship. 

Having said that, it’s also possible for a tidal wave to signify freedom or liberation from something. 

Since it can carry either a positive or negative connotation, it’s crucial to get each of your details right as the ultimate answer to your dream will come down to those details. 


Tidal Wave Dream Meaning: Dream Symbols

There are numerous reasons why a tidal wave shows up in your dream. However, some of the most common ones include – 

1. A harbinger of a major event

Often tidal waves surface to warn you of an event that will likely cause a stir in your waking life. 

2. Your personal problems have gotten out of hand

According to Theresa Cheung, author of The Dream Dictionary From A to Z, tidal wave dreams can be considered a nightmare.

She further adds that such types of dreams show your personal issues have gotten out of hand, eventually making your life and situations uncertain.

3. Repressed feelings and emotions

A turbulent tidal wave may surface if you have been repressing your feelings and emotions, especially strong ones. 

So, basically, you can interpret the dream as your subconscious urging you to let your repressed feelings out bit by bit imperceptibly.

Otherwise, they will gush out like a raging tidal wave at the most unexpected time. 

4. Sudden changes and anxiety 

Tidal wave dreams are also a reflection of your anxiety. Perhaps you find yourself in a situation where the outcome scares you. 

For example, if your partner has filed for divorce and you are left with no other option but to concede, numerous things will run through your mind. 

How will you carry on living? What will happen to your kid(s) if you have any? What will you say to them?

Your life is going to change overnight. You would be a divorcee in a matter of days or even hours. 

All those questions and the anxiety the sudden transformation triggered are enough to take the form of a raging tidal wave. 

5. You feel overwhelmed

It is common to dream of a tidal wave when you are struggling under pressure and feeling overwhelmed. 

6. Independence

According to ancient dream dictionaries, the dream is a sign of independence. Perhaps you don’t want to be tied down to a family.

Or maybe you want to travel the world instead of staying in a dead-end job for years on end.


Dreams of Tidal Wave – 32 Various Dream Scenarios

1. To dream of seeing a tidal wave

A tidal wave in the dream world has various symbols, some good and others bad.

While a few scenarios represent changes, self-discovery, and independence, others hint at repressed emotions, feelings of getting overwhelmed, and anxiousness. 

Dreaming of seeing a tidal wave emphasizes the need to plan ahead to accomplish your goals. 

According to the dream, you have the potential to do great things in life.

However, since success does not fall into your lap, you would need to be extremely committed and determined to your goals. With those in place, success would be easier than you imagined. 

2. A dream about witnessing a tidal wave from a distance

The plot stands for emotional instability, anxiety, and unhappiness in your waking world. 

3. A tidal wave destroying buildings in a dream vision

If the tidal wave destroys buildings, houses, and properties, the dream shows you are under great pressure in the real world. It might be related to either your personal or professional life or both. 

Alternatively, the plot is a sign of immense changes happening or about to happen in your life. 

4. Dreaming about a tidal wave flooding your house

Here, your house and its interior represent your personal space.

So, the dream indicates you are amidst a personal crisis, which was undoubtedly caused by a wave (an external force), something you have no control over. 

For instance, misunderstandings between you and your spouse due to the false rumors your mutual acquaintances have been spreading. 

5. To dream of a tidal wave flooding your house and premises but leaving you unharmed

If you dream of a tidal wave wrecking your house and the nearby streets without causing you any physical harm or emotional distress, the plot says you have accepted an inevitable change. 

According to the plot, you are riding well through the change, making the best of it, instead of whining and complaining. Note that the interpretation applies only if you felt calm within the dream.

Alternatively, if you felt anxious, the plot can be a reflection of your agitated state in the waking world.

You feel overwhelmed by your duties and responsibilities towards your family. This interpretation is especially true if you were afraid of getting drowned. 

Perhaps your people are relying too much on you, a lot more than you can cope with making you feel emotionally burdened and literally drowned. 

6. Dreaming of feeling agitated to see a tidal wave destroy your possessions

If you feel frustrated to see your material possessions get destroyed by a tidal wave, the plot reflects your attachment to the materialistic world. 

In the dream, you were not bothered about the harm the wave will cause you and your loved ones.

But you were more disturbed about your possessions getting ruined which highlights your unhealthy attachment to your riches and possessions. 

7. To dream of a tidal wave coming at you

The meaning of a dream about a tidal wave raging towards you depends on how you respond to it. 

If you have nowhere to run to and feel tense and scared to your bones, the plot implies your uneasiness and apprehension about a forthcoming transformation.

On the other hand, if you dream of a harmless tidal wave coming toward you, it means you are well prepared for the challenges that are making their way toward you. 

Regardless of the size of the wave, if you were worried about others more than you were about yourself it means you feel restless about how the upcoming changes will affect the lives of your close ones. 

Alternatively, some dream experts also associate a tidal wave coming towards you with possible financial problems and the need to take precautions. 

8. Dreaming of a tidal wave coming towards you while riding a boat

If you dream of an approaching tidal wave while on a boat it can mean that there is going to be a major change in your life. This could be either personal or work-related. 

9. Dreaming about surfing a tidal wave

Dream of Surfing a tidal wave can be interpreted in two different ways. 

First, it means you are doing everything possible to get through a problem. 

Alternatively, the dream may also mean you are using an unpleasant event or a situation to your advantage. 

10. Dreaming of surfing a clean tidal wave 

Dreaming of Surfing a tidal wave can also be interpreted differently depending on the water. 

If you were surfing on clean water, the plot is symbolic of amazing experiences with regard to love and romance. Of course, this applies only if you find the surfing experience pleasant. 

On the contrary, if the water was muddy, your higher self is warning you to be mentally prepared for challenges and confrontations of all types. 

11. A dream about drowning in a tidal wave

Drowning in a tidal wave in the dream world symbolizes patience and perseverance. 

From another perspective, the scenario stands for a perfect balance between your logic and emotions. You seem to be holding on to a ray of hope while being rational at the same time. 

Positively, drowning in a tidal wave represents growth, success, and prosperity. 

Such a dream may also happen if you are taking responsibility for the mess another person created. 

12. A dream of getting submerged and suffocated by a tidal wave

The interpretation of this plot is similar to that of running away from a tidal wave. 

Instead of keeping your emotions bottled up and ignoring them, release them and face the consequences – whatever they may be. 

Undoubtedly, it is easier said than done but you will thank yourself later for doing that. 

13. Dying in a tidal wave in a dream

The scenario can be looked at from several different perspectives. While it symbolizes an awakening or an enlightening experience for some people it can mean something is within reach for others. 

In other instances, the plot may be trying to highlight a past experience or a lesson that is crucial for your future. 

Alternatively, the dream may mean you are emotionally withdrawn and are refusing to or are having trouble expressing your thoughts and ideas. 

14. A dream about a tidal wave hitting you

Dreaming of getting hit by a tidal wave is a harbinger of potential trouble and damage anytime soon. 

Therefore, the dream might have happened warning you to keep a keen eye on anyone or anything that can cause you harm. 

15. To dream of being swept into a tidal wave 

The plot is a harbinger of upcoming major changes. 

As indicated in the dream, the changes are going to be super strong and significant.

So, the dream may be warning you to prepare yourself for the changes and to hang on to a situation or a person to make sure you or your emotions do not get carried away. 

From another perspective, the plot encourages you to surrender your old ways of thinking and living to create room for a fresh new start. 

16. A dream of running away from a tidal wave

Running from a tidal wave signifies you trying to flee from your overwhelming emotions and feelings. 

If you have been repressing your emotions, your dream may be your subconscious seeking an outlet to let go of your bottled-up feelings. 

17. Dreaming of surviving a tidal wave

If you survive a tidal wave, the plot wants you to feel assured because you will, without a doubt, be able to overcome the challenges of life. 

18. Dreaming about a tidal wave killing people at a particular place

The plot emphasizes the need to self-introspect your life and situations. According to the plot, there are certain people, events, and things that are hindering your growth. 

If that resonates, take this opportunity to look into your life and figure out what’s holding you back!

19. Dreaming of a tidal wave hitting the seashore

Compared to the scenarios we have discussed so far, a tidal wave hitting the seashore is an extremely auspicious sign. 

In the professional sphere, there’s a possibility that you will get appraised by the higher-ups thereby opening up unforeseen opportunities. 

From the romantic point of view, you may have a chance to encounter an amazing person who’ll love you dearly for who you are. 

20. Dreaming about a tidal wave that erupts out of the blue

When you dream of a tidal wave that erupts suddenly, your subconscious wants you to prepare yourself emotionally and mentally for a piece of sudden news that will literally shake you. 

For example, news of a close one passing away. 

Note that you were not swept into, hurt, or killed by the wave. So, the news that’s about to come will not affect you directly. But for sure, you will be able to feel the damage it has caused. 

Though a close friend dying will have little to no impact on your job, family, or love life, you will probably feel his or her absence for a long time. 

21. To see murky waters and the aftermath of a tidal wave in your dream

The plot denotes your involvement in a social cause. 

22. Tidal wave and murky seawater in a dream

Here, the plot emphasizes greatly on your emotions. 

23. To dream of creating or controlling a tidal wave

Here, the waves represent your emotions. This means you have the ability to control your as well as others’ emotions.

Possibly you are about to make major changes in your personal or professional life. 

24. Dreaming of a tidal wave at night

More often than not, the dream is your subconscious mind reflecting your real-life hopes and desires.

Needless to say, the water in this context reflects your life and your present state of mind.

25. Dreaming of a tidal wave at a river

A tidal wave at a river in a dream foretells major events happening soon. Whatever it is, your dream wants you to know that this will be extremely important for you. 

26. To dream of seeing a tidal wave near a beach

The scenario portends luck, success, and prosperity in your waking life. 

27. Dreaming of a tidal wave pushing you into the sea

If the waves push you into the vast sea leaving you helpless and losing control, you can interpret the scenario as a situation getting out of control in the real world. 

28. A dream about a devastating tidal wave

The dream shows you will be able to get through the struggles of life. 

No doubt, your life won’t be easy! It will be filled with roadblocks here and there. But what’s great about this particular dream is that it shows you will be able to get through each of the challenges. 

Moreover, the dream also adds that other people look up to you for your patience and determination. 

29. To dream of a giant tidal wave

A giant tidal wave may be symbolic of stressful situations and sadness, which is possibly a major threat to your wellbeing.  

30. Dreaming of a dark wave with dirty water

If you find the dark wave with dirty water threatening, the dream shows you are deeply worried about an upcoming event. 

31. Dreaming of a black tidal wave

Often, a black tidal wave denotes an issue that needs to be looked into at the earliest. 

Alternatively, a black tidal wave may mean loss of faith in someone or something thereby compelling you to be skeptical of everyone’s intentions. 

Black tidal waves are also a sign that you are not receiving the recognition you deserve.

32. Dreaming about tidal waves and flood

The scenario emphasizes the need for spiritual cleansing and healing.

At other times, the dream stands for a period of reflection and introspection. Focusing on the aspects of your life that needs to be changed and evolved to make your life more purposeful. 

Tidal waves and floods in the same dream scenario may also stand for your unconditional support and encouragement for someone. 


Dreams Of Tidal Waves: 5 Dream Examples

1. A girl dreamed of a tidal wave

The girl’s parents were on the verge of getting a divorce. In this context, the tidal wave stands for the girl feeling overwhelmed by the changes that were awaiting her life and her family.

2. A woman dream of hopping over tidal waves that go back and forth

In waking life, the relationship between the woman and her husband was rocky. She believed their bond was damaged beyond repair. 

In this context, the waves that come and go signify the recurring quarrels and confrontations between her and her husband.

3. A woman dream of a tidal wave

In real life, the woman was in a relationship with a man she was so in love with.

Everything was going on well and she was having the time of her life until an issue popped up between them putting their relationship at stake. 

4. A woman had recurring dreams of getting inundated by tidal waves

In waking life, she found out that her husband was cheating on her.

Here, the recurring dreams of tidal waves reflect her overwhelmed state of how to approach the problem without further deteriorating the already damaged relationship. 

5. A man dreams of a tidal wave approaching him

In reality, the man suffered from arthritis which he believed was getting way too serious and out of control.  


Spiritual Meaning Of A Tidal Wave Dream

Spiritually, a tidal wave in a dream may stand for a real-life event that has made a great impact or impression on you.


Biblical Meaning Of Tidal Waves In Dream

From the Biblical perspective, a tidal wave carries a negative connotation. Most likely, the scenario is a harbinger of an unpleasant situation or an event that will have a huge impact on your life. 

Since the upheaval can affect you in any aspect of your life, your subconscious encourages you to be well prepared for whatever is about to happen soon. 


Tidal Waves According To Olden Dream Books

The old dream books have nothing positive to say about dreams that include a tidal wave. 

According to those books, such dreams stand for negative experiences, destruction, and pessimism. 


Are Tidal Wave Dreams Prophetic?

Yes and No!!! Although there have been instances of people dreaming of a tidal wave prior to it actually happening, not every tidal wave dream should be considered prophetic. 

Prophetic dreams are rare and do not happen to anyone. However, if you notice a repetitive pattern of tidal wave dreams, especially during hard times, there’s a possibility that they are prophetic. 


When Are You More Likely To Dream Of A Tidal Wave?

Tidal waves tend to show up more when you are under a lot of pressure with regard to a certain matter. It’s also common to have such a dream if you are going through a significant change. 

In the dream world, water is also associated with emotions. So, the raging waves can also stand for the releasing of your overwhelmed emotions or feelings. 

Suppose you are not being genuine about your feelings towards a certain someone, you can expect these types of visions to show up in your dream.

Also, such dreams may happen if you are procrastinating something for fear of the changes your actions will bring. 

With regards to love, romance and relationships, the dream may happen prior to a new beginning, say a marriage. 


Are Tidal Wave Dreams A Nightmare? 

To get straight to the point, there indeed are dream experts who class tidal wave dreams as nightmares. 

While that can be true, not every such dream should be considered a nightmare. Because they might also have shown up to convey to you a message from your higher self. 

To figure out whether your scenario is a nightmare or not, you can try asking the following questions. 

  1. How did you feel in the dream? Were you mentally devastated? Or were you not disturbed at all? 
  2. How intense or how deep was the wave?

If you dream of a tidal wave with clear water and you quite like it, the dream stands for a positive experience. 

On the contrary, if you had an awful experience with dirty, murky waves, the plot hints at a negative situation or a matter. 


Why Did You Dream Of Tidal Wave? 

Getting caught and swept into a swirl of a tidal wave is definitely not a pleasant vision. Neither is one of a wave killing tens of people.

So, when these types of catastrophic visions show up in your dream, the first question you will ask yourself is WHY? 

‘Why did I dream of it?’

While there can be tens of probable reasons why we have gathered a handful of the most common reasons why these types of scenarios surface in your dream. 

  1. A major change is about to take place in your waking life. And needless to say, it would be significant enough to impact a huge portion of your life. 
  2. You have repressed emotions and feelings that need to be let out. 
  3. It can also mean you feel greatly burdened and overwhelmed in your waking life. 
  4. You are about to begin a new phase of your life.
  5. Positively, the dream may also be symbolic of liberation and independence. 
  6. Despite the challenges life throws at you, you are doing well riding through the obstacles, making each of them count. 
  7. You are a great support system to a certain someone. 
  8. Something in your waking life is about to get out of control. 
  9. Trouble and possibly damage are on the horizon. 
  10. The dream may also reflect your patience and perseverance in the waking world. 
  11. You have, with much difficulty come to terms with something and have accepted it for what it is. 

Wrapping Up

When you have a tidal wave dream, the devastation and the uproar caused by the raging waves will initially compel you to think of all the things that could potentially go wrong in your waking life. 

While that is normal and expected, you need to remember why it happened in the first place.

Dreams being the royal road to the unconscious according to Carl Jung is possibly your subconscious letting you aware of the things you have missed or have ignored in the waking world. 

So, instead of getting worked up and stressing over what will happen, ask yourself where you think your life is going wrong.

In which aspect of your life have you gone off track and what can you do to get them right? Asking those questions while decoding your particular scenario will probably give you the answer to your dream.