## 1 Introduction  
Soil water content (SWC) refers to the amount of water present in soil, typically expressed as a percentage of the soil's total weight or volume. SWC plays a critical role in maintaining ecosystem health, supporting agricultural productivity, and regulating hydrological processes [1, 2], and it is also closely linked to sustainable development goals [3]. Understanding the factors that influence SWC is essential, especially in regions impacted by land-use changes, such as coal mining. Mining activities significantly alter the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils, leading to changes in water retention and nutrient availability [4].  
In coal mining areas, the extensive disturbance on the soil layer may result in increased variability in SWC, as well as alterations in soil structure and composition [5]. The disturbance in coal mining areas can involve direct soil removal, such as surface cuts or excavation, as well as the creation of underground mining shafts, both of which disrupt the natural soil structure and can alter broader groundwater circulation patterns. The effects of these changes may not be uniform across different soil depths, which can complicate our understanding of moisture dynamics in such environments. In contrast, non-coal mining areas often maintain more stable soil characteristics, providing a valuable reference for assessing the impacts of mining.  
Previous studies have demonstrated that topographic factors, such as altitude and slope, significantly influence SWC [6, 7, 8]. Meanwhile, rainfall significantly influences the spatiotemporal variation in SWC by affecting soil moisture dynamics, infiltration rates, and water retention properties. Increased rainfall can lead to higher soil moisture levels, but the impact varies based on soil properties and topography. For instance, areas with high permeability may experience rapid drainage, while finer-textured soils retain moisture longer. Research has shown that rainfall patterns affect SWC distribution differently across landscapes, influencing agricultural productivity and ecosystem health [9, 10]. However, the interactions between these factors and soil properties in coal mining regions remain poorly understood. The relationship between soil chemical properties--such as pH, organic matter, and nutrient content--and SWC is particularly important, as these properties can dictate soil's capacity to retain moisture [11].  
This study aims to compare SWC and its relationships with environmental factors in coal mining and non-coal mining areas. By examining both topographic and edaphic factors, we intend to elucidate the impact of mining activities on SWC dynamics and to pinpoint key differences between these environments. To ensure a valid comparison, we selected study sites based on criteria, focusing on areas with similar topographic factors, soil types, and climatic conditions. The coal mining areas were chosen for their active mining operations, while non-coal mining areas were selected from regions with comparable environmental factors but no mining influence. Specifically, we hypothesize that (1) SWC and edaphic indicators will undergo substantial changes as a result of coal mining activities; (2) the relationships between SWC and environmental factors will be significantly altered by mining activities; and (3) rainfall will differentially influence these relationships in coal mining versus non-coal mining areas. This study's findings will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of soil-water interactions in disturbed landscapes, providing crucial insights for developing land management strategies that address the adverse effects of mining and promote sustainable soil and water resource management in affected ecosystems.