If "subside" means to become less intense or severe:
* Increase
* Escalate
* Worsen
* Intensify
* Flare up
* Rise
* Surge
If "subside" means to settle down or become calm:
* Erupt
* Flare up
* Agitate
* Stir up
* Exacerbate
* Unleash
* Provoke
If "subside" means to sink or settle:
* Rise
* Float
* Elevate
* Ascend
Example:
* The storm subsided after a few hours. (Opposite: The storm intensified after a few hours.)
* The crowd subsided once the concert ended. (Opposite: The crowd erupted once the concert ended.)
* The floodwaters subsided after a week. (Opposite: The floodwaters rose after a week.)
Therefore, the best opposite for "subside" depends on the specific context in which it is used.