'Reviewer Comments'.pdf

The manuscript "Effects of pan-Arctic snow cover and air temperature changes on soil heat content" by Shi et al. aims to evaluate influences of snow cover extent and air temperature on soil heat content. The methodological approach focusing on snow cover extent and soil heat content is an interesting point, and the authors examined factors affecting soil heat content at different snow cover zones. However, the reviewer has large questions about the methodologies used, particularly the use of correlation coefficients, which may not be suitable for this case due to the strong influence of air temperature on snow cover extent. The reviewer suggests using partial correlation coefficients and cross-checking the results with other methods, such as model experiments. Additionally, the reviewer questions the use of integrated soil heat content to 18m depth, suggesting that shallower depths should be considered, and notes that the manuscript lacks data relating to the impacts of soil moisture and phase change on soil heat content. The discussion section is also considered weak and general, and the reviewer suggests rewriting it based on the results, including comparisons with previous studies.