ETXs change when tunneling

I have a number of nodes remote to me with typical ETX of 5-6.  I've noticed that when I enable the tunnel down to Don, KE6BXT, those ETXs go up substantially, in some cases doubling.   That doesn't seem right.  Any ideas?

---------------------- EDIT---
I just realized rain has moved into the area.  I'll watch it until the storm moves through and see if they come back up.