Strong/persistent Niña standing wave now and that NMME mean is impressive. Should probably note the rapid decay of the Niña in the new year might be problematic if it decays from east to west. A couple of previous studies have identified a link between a positive state of the Trans Nino Index (TNI), with colder waters in Nino 4 versus 1.2, and increased potential for tornado outbreaks especially east of the Plains in spring.