Today I pulled onto my street and was about to turn into a parking spot when I heard an incredibly loud screeching sound coming from the front end. It seemed to correspond to my turning the wheel, but didn't stop when I turned the wheel back. It sounded for about 15 seconds. Now, it has been raining here for a couple days and I did drive through a fairly large puddle before I pulled in, does anyone think that may have played a role? Thanks.

Check your power steering fluid level, does your accessory belt look worn, any bald spots?

Get someone to turn the wheel while you watch the pullies to see if any start slowing down. Most likely its the power steering pump either really low on fluid or its seizing. Screeching usually means the belt is slipping on a pulley because its trying to go slower than the belt, so it also could just be the PS pump working normally and the belt is just slipping because its old.

Do you know the age of the belt?

I just had the serpentine belt replaced and all others are relatively new. I would check the PS Fluid level, but its so hard to get to. Anyone know the easiest way to access it?

I don't see why you think the power steering pump is that hard to get to in order to check fluid. Is your 2000 different than my 2001? Is your battery up front or under the rear seat? What seems to be in the way?

I just grab a light and shine it down behind the alternator. I can easily see the power steering pump cap. I just reach down and back with my left hand and unscrew the cap. I then wipe off the stem and reinsert it screwing it back on. I then remove the cap again and check to see where the fluid rides on the stem.

If all of the accessory pulleys are turning freely, and if the belt has proper tension on it, and if the belt tensioner is in good shape, there shouldn't be a screech.

Edit: Can the PS pump be turned by hand with the belt off? I just now thought of that. Does anyone know?

Yes, it wouldn't be unreasonable to think that water splashing up caused that screehing sound.

I agree with Mark fully. Most likely you added lubrication in this case water to the belt and that made it slip.

Power steering pump etc does take a decent amount of energy from the engine when the wheels are being turned.

If anything, check the pullies per above and the actual tension marks on the tensioner.

i get a belt squeal very often when diving through a puddle then cornering, it has always happened since i bought the car...

You may also want to check the upper coolant elbow. If its cracked, seeping, leaking whatever, it may drip coolant that can splash onto the belt causing screeching as well.