Inhabitants of the western U.S. states may feel the effects of global warming far more significantly than the rest of the world, according to a new study released by the Natural Resources Defense Council.

"Global warming is hitting the West hard," said Theo Spencer of the NRDC. "It is already taking an economic toll on the region's tourism, recreation, skiing, hunting and fishing activities."

According to federal government temperature data, from 2003 to 2007 11 states in the west experienced a 1.7 degrees Fahrenheit increase in average temperature, while the global average increase during this time was only 1 degree Fahrenheit. The NRDC says the average temperature of the Colorado River Basin has gone up 2.2 degrees Fahrenheit and because the river's major source of water comes from melting snow in the mountains, the warmer weather will reduce the amount of snow melting and increase evaporation. If you don't think that seems like such a big deal consider that Los Angeles, San Dietgo, Las Vegas and Denver all rely on the water supply from the basin.

Scientists believe that this warming - at nearly twice the rate compared to the rest of the world - will almost certainly cause drought conditions, with bigger and rapidly-growing cities expected to be hit hardest by the impact.

» Reuters Environment