Extreme Heat Watch: Southern New England is bracing for dangerous heat and humidity Wednesday through Friday, with Rhode Island under an Extreme Heat Watch (heat indices up to ~110) and warnings to limit strenuous outdoor activity, hydrate, and check on kids, pets, and elderly neighbors. Invasive Species Cleanup: Volunteers on Lake Quinsigamond (Worcester/Shrewsbury) pulled water chestnut plants from kayaks and boats, hauling roots for composting after spotting a thick reappearance on the lake’s north side. Tick-Borne Disease Alert: A surge in tick-borne illness is being linked to rising tick populations across New England, including Rhode Island, where researchers say blacklegged ticks are expanding and Powassan virus is being diagnosed more often. Wildlife Research in RI: The University of Rhode Island tagged four bobcat kittens this spring with partners from DEM and wildlife rehabilitators, and residents can submit bobcat sightings. PFAS/Microplastics Lab Advance: Researchers developed a new way to extract and measure PFAS-related microplastics (microfluoroplastics) from dust, water, and sediment samples. Local Water Quality/Health: RIDOH and DEM lifted advisories at Watchaug Pond and recommended avoiding contact with Cunliff Lake at Roger Williams Park.